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STEVIE RAY & THE COCKER SPANIEL DISCO DOG DOLL -- ARE YOU SLEEPING IN 2021?

Are cats the most adaptable creatures on the planet? I mean outside of mid-term politicians, of course.

With cats, if something bugs ‘em, they just seem to move on to the next happy moment.
Consider that as we address our weekend feature, Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap.
Our apprentice office cat, Stevie Ray Treeboy, had spent the day outside of the office.
Once the door was open, he came in to take a nap.
 He is “Stevie Ray” in honor of famed Oak Cliff and globally beloved musician Stevie Ray Vaughan. And he’s "Treeboy" because a couple of years ago, I heard a yowling kitten, looked into the eye-level branches on a mimosa tree in Oak Cliff and reached in and pulled this guy — a maybe 5-week-old kitten — off the limb that he was gripping with all his might with all of his tiny little toenails. Yep, it all adds up to Stevie Ray Treeboy, The Oak Cliff Rescue.
So, Friday afternoon, I walked into the office and found this guy napping with his pal, Cocker Spaniel Disco Doll. We think DD (for Disco Doll) has the gift of music. That’s what it says on his dogbox. Says he “GROOVES TO THE SONG GET DOWN TONIGHT.” 
[LARRY ASIDE: You’ll note Stevie Ray is following the directions on the packing box. At least once in these photos, anyway. He is keeping "This End Up." A good goal for all of us, right?]

Will the Disco Doll dog groove? I’m not going to destroy the priceless collectors-item packaging just to find out if we have some batteries that fit the music box on this melodious dog. This thing might be worth a million bucks -- might qualify for PBS's Antiques Road Show, right?
Nope, I’ll just get down with K.C. and the Sunshine Band by clicking HERE. I'll get down with that band much like a fellow with North Texas roots did in 2006 HERE. Hint: He was a star of the 1962 Dallas-filmed movie State Fair — just about as far from disco as a guy 'n' gal (using early '60s vernacular) could get.

In the final photo, I’m pretty sure Stevie Ray was dreaming about “getting down tonight.” He can only dream about it. I think you know what I mean.
[DEAR READERS, remember to send photos of your slumbering dogs and cats or ol’ rock singers around the house to dallrp@aol.com and we’ll post ‘em in our long-running weekend feature, Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. We love showing off your best friends. Plus, insomniacs may be convinced that they, too can get some sleep if they can just find the right stuffed toy who can carry a tune or if they can get Pat Boone to drop by a couple of nights a week and sing a lullaby to them — not sure Get Down Tonight qualifies as a lullaby.]
— Offer pillow advice or practical uses for snoring by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and putting “The Cat Purrs On My Pillow At Midnight” in the subject line. —

HANDSOME GATSBY, DOGS, CATS, HUMANS -- NOW AND THEN IT ALL WORKS OUT

EDITION OF THURSDAY, JULY 29/FRIDAY, JULY 30 [PetPowellPress] And, now, we begin to gently move toward the transitional weekend linking July 2021 to August 2021. What have we left undone? Scary question when you think, “Where do I start my list?” Do something gentle instead: Adopt or rescue a shelter animal. Talk a friend into finding a loving roommate at an animal shelter. The theory? This is Texas: We can “SAVE ‘EM ALL.” How about the eyes on that fabulous face of a dog named "Tank" -- adopt him and change his name. Moving along:
THREE CARROLLTON DOGS
MANAGE TO GET A BREAK
In our Wed- nesday edition we mentioned the efforts of Carroll- ton Animal Services to help three dogs — Homie (left), Calypso (right) and Tilly — find a safe place to await adoption. 

We got a copy of an update from Vanessa Johnson, the Senior Animal Care Specialist at Carrollton. It read, “GREAT JOB EVERYONE!! HOMIE AND CALYPSO HAVE LEFT THE BUILDING! TILLY IS SCHEDULED TO LEAVE FRIDAY!! THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR HARD WORK IN SHARING AND NETWORKING! :-)” 

In the interest of helping Carrollton move its shelter population along, we went to the shelter website and clicked on the listed animals here.
While we’re elated to learn of the rescue of these dogs, we’re also happy to go to the Carrollton site and look at the animals still awaiting a happy resolution.

 Look at the face on that beautiful boy Husky mix, 9-month-old, 46-pound Jacob (#48236707) who was an owner-surrender. He becomes available for adoption on Friday, July 30 — the fee is $5. Five lousy bucks for this fabulous dog. There’s going to be a lottery for Jacob. Call the shelter at 972-466-3420. Lottery is at 10 a.m. Friday.
Thomas the Cat (#48238920) a 3-year-old Tabby who came in as a stray on July 16. His bio says he’s “getting over a cold” and not yet ready for adoption. But he will be. [LARRY ASIDE: These gray tabbies are extremely rare in North Texas — wait a second, I typed a fictional feline assertion!] Go to the Carrollton website and you’ll see many Tabbies — including these three known as the “Rice Krispie Litter.” The 7-week-old kittens are named Snap, Crackle & Pop. They’re “semi-feral” but that just means they may be “semi-socialized,” too, with the right gentle soul taking care of them in a 5601c3 rescue group.]

While looking through Carrollton’s animals we ran into a genuine “first.”
This is #47962448, a year-old Guinea Pig named — and here’s the “first” — “Gatsby.” Never before seen a Guinea Pig with a name from the F. Scott Fitzgerald catalogue, but he looks exquisitely classy. Came in on June 10. Owner-surrender. Doesn’t “come with a cage.”
[DEAR READERS, Perhaps you recall F. Scott’s description of Jay Gatsby: “If personality is an unbroken series of successful gestures, then there was something gorgeous about him." Yes, there is something gorgeous about this guinea pig.]
FROM STRAYDOG INC.
THE STORY OF SUE

You know, surely the story of Straydog Inc., the “No Kill Shelter And Sanctuary” in East Texas. It’s on the website at straydog.org. That is how we learned about this girl Sue.
That story is this: “Straydog rescued Sue after a breeder took her in to be euthanized ….” [LARRY PAUSE: Cheaper to kill her than love her, right Dear Breeder? LARRY RESUME:] “…EUTHANIZED due to a leg injury. Her leg was cut all the way around after getting caught in a trap. Her leg has been treated and she’s been wearing a cone for 3-4 months. Now, her wound is almost completely closed up and her sweet and loving personality is starting to come out! She’s getting lots of love and will be looking for a new home when she’s fully healed.”
Straydog is looking for help in funding Sue’s medical bills.  Click HERE to reach the donation page.
Email Straydog at straydogshelter @gmail.com. That’s in case you want to adopt this girl. The shelter’s mailing address is Straydog Shelter, P.O. Box 1465, Gun Barrel City, TX 75147.
Reminder: Straydog has adoption events scheduled for 11 a.m.-3 p.m. on August 14 at PetSmart Plano, 6204 W. Park Blvd. in Plano and (same times) at PetSmart Garland, 5401 N. Garland Road, in Garland.
And one more thing: You see that artwork — it’s for Straydog’s Pups in Pearls Gala on October 23 at Renaissance Dallas Legacy West in Plano. Read more about it at straydog.org. 

YURI ‘LOVES LIFE AND…
EVERYONE IN IT’
Mesquite Animal Shelter volunteer dog biographer Judi Brown sent us the tip on “this happy girl Yuri.” She's a 4-year-old, 54-pound brindle and white Pittie girl who came in on the 19th as a stray. Judi writes, “She’s a fun-loving, happy, calm, playful girl who loves life and seemingly everyone in it. She loves toys and sought them out herself. She entertains herself with them. She makes quick work of the soft toys, so hard rubber toys that would be more durable would be advised.  Her tail wagged constantly. She came when I called her. She liked having her ears scratched. She would be a good dog for an active family. She would keep you entertained and vice versa.  … When I walked her through the bay she wanted to make friends with many of the dogs. Her tail was wagging.” To ask about Yuri use her ID #48140949 when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@city- ofmesquite.com. Judi noted, also, that the photo session with Yuri “was a hot day and she definitely prefers to be inside in the air-conditioning!”
Judi also sent us a note about this 2-year-old, 58-pound kind of Boston-looking girl Bee. She was brought to the shelter on July 10 — she and a Husky named Abby had been ”abandoned at their home.” [LARRY NOTE: Abby may have been claimed — she was not on the shelter animal site Thursday afternoon.]
 Bee, the “little love bug,” is “absolutely adorable,” Judi writes, and adds, “This situation is hard to understand but especially because both of these dogs are very well behaved and all-around good dogs! As you can see Bee is adorable! I had a very difficult time selecting the pictures to go along with this evaluation because she is so photogenic! Besides that she is a total love bug! When I first went into her kennel she couldn’t stop wiggling and wagging! She was so happy for human contact and to have a friend! Once she got out into the yard she settled down but she is energetic, happy and outgoing. In spite of being energetic she’s also relatively calm. She did not jump on me.  She stayed close to me wanting attention. I was rewarded with lots of kisses.” She also likes air-conditioning. Bee is ID #48188670.

We’ll close Mesquite’s segment with Tank (#48047107) who Judi describes as a “beautiful boy with captivating eyes and a winning personalty. He’s a 2-year-old mixed breed — possibly Whippet/Jack Russell mix, Judi says — who weighs 35 pounds. His microchip gave his name as Tank, but Judi says, “In my opinion this does not fit him because he is not a large dog by any means. Not only did his owners choose not to come and re-claim, but he had an adoption pending that fell through. Now this is your lucky day because this is one special dog that is available to you! He is calm and very gentle and stays close. He’s obedient and wants to please. He doesn’t know how to sit for treats but he is highly motivated for them and does a little dance.” 
Again, for these Mesquite animals, use their ID numbers when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.

THE 4-LEGGED HELPERS
CONTINUING TO HUSTLE
And they’re hustling for animals in Lancaster and Ferris that we mentioned in our previous edition and, of course, there’s this dog in the somewhat downtrodden Wilmer city shelter. 
The Help- ers sent photos of this girl and reported, “We found out there is a German Shepherd at the shelter, also.” 
The Help- ers said, "The guy currently picking up strays for the city ... said male but another Wilmer citizen said the dog was in her yard at one point and definitely a female.  She or he is very friendly ...Kelsey is a young dog and definite purebred GSD. Found out and about as a stray.”

Wilmer is also hosting (see yesterday’s edition) the young puppy Hayden and the Shep- herd/Smooth Collie Mix Blue. 
To help any of these animals, call or text 4-Legged Helpers at 214-949-2726 or 214-906-7680 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com.
And you can see many of 4-Legged Helpers’ save-‘em projects by going to the Helpers’ Facebook page HERE. 
CONTEMPLATIONS
THE PAST & OTHER THINGS…
In the opening I asked, “What have we left undone?” Don’t even start on emptying the boxes I keep swearing I’ll unpack. Books, old files, CDs, VHS tapes, toys without batteries and, finally, in a large box dated 1972-2021, a collection of carefully organized “Futile Hopes” for the Texas Rangers in the World Series. I have found my ukelele — it was on the back of a closet shelf next to my Bowed Psaltry. I’m still looking for my mandolin. Can’t play any of ‘em. … What would I like to do before the year gets any older? Attend a movie in a real theater. After that, all my ambitions go into a cavalcade of blurs. [NOTE TO DALLAS: I miss going to the Granada Theater to see foreign films. Saw La Dolce Vita there. Felt nearly intellectual. Not sure I’ll get that sensation from Disney’s Jungle Cruise. Is there a theater in North Texas that shows foreign films? I can read subtitles, you know. French detective movies, maybe? Are North Texans destined to see all quality foreign films in our living rooms or on our iPads or Kindles? Where has civilization gone!!!! … Saw this subject line in my inbox: “FIND DEALS ON FOOTBALL MOUTHGUARDS —STARTING AT $12.99” Mouthguards sure are cheaper than left or right guards. But, I’m sure the mouthguards won’t be as mobile once the Dallas Cowboys season starts. You know, if everyone can stay off the injured list, Dak.
— Offer gridiron tips or foreign film suggestions by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com. —-

ADDRESSING PRESSURE, ANIMALS IN CUSTODY, CHIHUAHUAS TIED TO A POLE, DIESEL'S PAWS, HANDSOME LOGAN, TEENS AND STUN GUNS

EDITION OF WEDNESDAY JULY 28/THURSDAY JULY 29, 2021 [PetPowellPress] Elite athletes have begun taking time off because of the mental pressure. Now and then I hear worn-down animal advocates, rescuers and shelter workers swear they’re going to take some time off. Most of ‘em can’t. Being away from it is worse than being in it. Right? 

So, let’s just say this: Bless all of you people who devote your hearts to exercising the love it was created to give to animals and kids and people and, of course, the great Lone Star State. Yeah, I put that Texas note in there because I needed a moment of relief from worrying about the vulnerable people and animals. Not that I don’t worry about Texas — I’ve driven on Dallas’ freeways. That dog with the great face is Logan — he’s among many animals in the area needing some help from humans. His story is in today's report.

THESE CHIHUAHUAS
WERE FOUND WHERE???
Well, goodness gracious, some local human is really competing for the title Dumbest Most Insulting Human On The Planet. 
How’s that? These boys, Troy on the left and Curtis, were ”found tied to a pole together with no one around,” reports 4-Legged Helpers, trying to help get them out of the Lancaster Animal Shelter and into a safe place, i.e., a home or rescue.

They become available for rescue and adoption on Friday because they still have to go through the stray-hold routine even though they were (use your Sam Kinison stage voice when you read this phrase:) TIED TO A POLE!
The note about the little dogs read, “Probably abandoned. …. How anyone could abandon these cuties is beyond us. They are especially sweet and extremely loving. Especially in the kind of heat we are having.”
Also in Lancaster are these two. The Orange Tiger Tabby girl is Buttercup, who clearly knows how to pose for an important photograph -- just needs a number across her chest. “She is darling,” the Helpers report.
This boy Max, an Aussie Shepherd mix, is thought to “probably be middl-aged based on what the ACO said about his pretty eyes having a bluish tint. He is gentle and sweet and loveable and was so very good through all the picture taking!” 
To help any of these animals, call or text 4-Legged Helpers at 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com.
The 4-Legged Helpers are also trying to help this quartet get out of the Ferris Shelter, south of Dallas along I-45.
Curious thing, this collection.
Melissa is the longhair Tortoiseshell momma — you see her indoor and her outdoor eyes! — and she’s had these baby girls who know how to ride comfortably on the torso of a human being. Misty is on the left and Heather is on the right.
And there’s this tidbit about Melissa. The Helpers report, “She has beautiful soft fur and big beautiful sweet eyes and was in the same home with Neily the Border Collie and she adores dogs, just as Neily adores her.  Misty and Heather are baby sweet and adore being held.”
And this girl Neily is, the Helpers report, adored by Melissa and she is “Just so very sweet and cute. she is precious, loving and gentle. A wonderful girl. Desperately needs someone to brush her beautiful fur and care for her.” (Same contact points as for the animals above: Call or text 4-Legged Helpers at 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com.)

And the Helpers say this little guy Hayden is “Code Red” in Wilmer.
I looked at his photo and couldn’t see any wounds or injuries, so I asked 4-Legged Helper Guiding Light Laura Macias and she reminded me that the shelter in Wilmer, on the southern edge of Dallas, is not a genuinely functioning animal shelter. The facility, she says, is a “small rusty building … that often does not have running water or air-conditioning or heating depending what is out at the moment.”

So, why is Hayden, the little guy “they picked up” in Wilmer a Code Red? Laura responds, “Because the only ways out of Wilmer are death or a rescue — no public access or adoptions. NO other way out!:
Again, the Helpers contact points are “call or text 4-Legged Helpers at 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com."
And, yes, Blue, the “Shepherd or Smooth Collie Mix” we wrote about earlier is still there. Still waiting. Get in touch with the Helpers.
WAIT, HERE ARE FOUR MORE in the 4-Legged Helpers’ focus! The Great Pyrs are, left-to-right, Clementine and Doyen. They’re 2 or 3 years old, the Helpers report. And they “LOVE LOVE LOVE other dogs, kids, cats — truly everyone.” The lady Clementine is a totally white dog — has a hot spot on her back right now. And Doyen is a boy who has blue eyes and one of his ears is distinctly black. Cool lookin’ dogs, right? 

Contact the Helpers about these handsome gents, too. We’ve mentioned these two before: Hemingway is the Lab/Terrier mix, a year or so old, and was an indoor dog until his human had to let him go because of her own health issues. He fetches tennis balls and knows obedience commands — we’ve mentioned before that he’ll “crate himself if you tell him to do so.”
Hank is a terrier-mix fellow who “is awesome” because he’s quite well-behaved” and “adores children, other dogs and absolutely will not jump on anyone —very chill, very well-behaved.”
And you can follow the Helpers’ animal-saving efforts on Facebook HERE .
DIESEL THE PITTIE MIX
NEEDS A QUICK RESCUE

The tip on this handsome guy arrived from Debra Chisholm, volunteer dog biographer at Mesquite Animal services where Diesel currently waits for a way out of the isolation unit and into a loving home. 
He came in as a stray on July 3. Four-year-old Diesel weighs in at 67 pounds.
Recently, Debra reports, he did not seem to feeling well so he was taken to a vet. Diesel was enduring a URI and his feet were bleeding. The vet’s theory is that bleedng was “probably due to irritation from the cleaning solution used ast the shelter.” So Diesel is being kept in isolation and being treated with a spray for his paws and antibiotics for the urinary infection. 
Debra writes, “Diesel looks intimidating but once he is out of the kennel and in the great outdoors he seems more approachable. This big boy walks on a leash but is a strong puller!  He is highly treat-motivated so this could be a good motivation for training him. … He is a friendly fellow, though it seems as though he may not have been highly socialized with humans.  He has a moderate activity level and is quite athletic. … His recovery will undoubtedly be slower at the shelter in an iso kennel so if you can get him to a place that would be more conducive to a more speedy recovery, please help Diesel by networking or tagging at rescues@cityofmesquite.com, typing in the subject line TAG, ID 48138844.” 
Use that number to ID him when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email that address above.
LOGAN, FOUND IN KAUFMAN,
NEEDS A HAPPY HOME ANYWHERE
Jeane Anthony, animal rescuer/advocate, sent us these photos of Logan and included a Logan Checklist. It reads: 

--Great with other dogs! 

--Loves everyone he meets and great with kids!
--Completely vetted and heartworm negative.
-- Love bug!!!

She told us that “loveable Logan” is a “happy-go-lucky boy” who is a year-and-a-half-old Catahoula/Lab mix who weighs 43 pounds, walks great on a leash, loves to go in the car and is just an awesome dog.”

He has been in boarding for 5 weeks — Pandemic, July 4 fireworks and other circumstances have kept him from getting to meet people.
But, Jeane is convinced that he belongs in and will be the highlight of a good home. “Want to meet this handsome hunk?” she asks. All you have to do is call 832-561-5554 and schedule an introduction to Logan.
While he was found in Kaufman, he is now in Dallas, Jeane says.
“We have an application and rehoming fee is $200.  We are looking for foster, rescue or an approved loving home with the adoption process.  Of course no fee for foster or rescue.”
CONTEMPLATIONS
PONDERING THE WORLD
While watching the New Zealand Olympic women soccer team compete I saw that one of the subs was “Paige Satchell.” So I looked into it. She’s a native-born Kiwi — no known connection to Satchel Paige, the American National Baseball Hall of Fame pitcher — a legend for his pitching, known known for striking out batters. Coincidentally, in her soccer career Paige Satchell plays “striker.” Baseball and soccer — the world’s great sports and a great connection between Satchel Paige and Paige Satchell. Here’s a quote for Paige Satchell from the immortal Satchel Paige: "Work like you don't need the money. Love like you've never been hurt. Dance like nobody's watching.”….
I was scrolling through the Olympic channels on the cable guide and when I hit the “info” button I was told I was going to see “Mens handball. France vs. Germany” but, there, on the screen, was a pool full of swimsuit-clad women trying to beat each other to the cement at the finish line! Must be hard to keep up with Olympic schedules on the other side of the International Date Line. …
My email inbox is set to get first lines from posts on a neighborhood bulletin board. On Wednesday, the first one I read said, “What to do with a teenager?” and the second read “Are stun guns legal in Texas?” Turns out the stun gun note was NOT a response to the Grandmother asking about things in the area her teenage granddaughter might enjoy. Besides, everybody knows teenage determination is stronger than stun guns.
—- Offer stunning advice or teen tips by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put ‘shocking suggestions’ in the subject line. —-

ZANE AND BINGO KEEP WAITING -- THEIR LIVES ARE AT PERIL; OTHER DOGS FACE SAME FATE, CATS, TOO; AND WHAT ABOUT YOUR GUTTERS?

EDITION OF WEDNESDAY, JULY 28, 2021 [PetPowellPress] For this edition, we are a bit overwhelmed with shelter dogs -- it's a local trend, isn't it! Most shelters are overloaded and have many animals on the clock. Most shelters have cats that need homes, too. People who want a cat — check with your closest shelter. You may find one you love. These two are on the Dallas Animal Services website HERE — if they’re already taken by the time you get there, rest assured that there are, in the known universe and in Texas, more cats waiting.
And the word “waiting” brings us to these two dogs we’ve been writing about for a couple of weeks. They’re in a pretty tough situation in Fort Worth. 
These dogs are wanted. Surely. Surely by someone!!! Yet, they continue to live shelter lives on the clock in the Fort Worth Animal Care & Control’s North Campus, rooming together as they have done since the day the became bonded dogs before their human handed them over to a place that sometimes has to euthanize to handle all the dumped animals.

Zane is the German Shepherd and Bingo is the dog that is not a German Shepherd. The fear is, one tipster wrote, “No one wants a large bonded pair.”
They have been in the Fort Worth shelter’s care since APRIL THIRTEENTH!!! Owner was moving. Look at their faces. Somebody needs those dogs. We just haven’t ID’d that person yet. Those dogs sure as heck need somebody.
 More on their ages, weights and physical condition later in this edition. I’ve been at this dog and cat writin’ for a while — these two are getting into my heart and I’m writing about them to find the actual human heart that is born to be with them.
 Other dogs and cats got to my heart and into our home first or I’d go get Zane and Bingo. Someone else will have to step up and save their lives, appreciate their devotion, love watching them come running when you call their names.
They’re not too good with other dogs, but they are darned good with each other. That’s what the shelter folks tell me. Clearly they’ll pose for photos. And they’re happy being together. They are NOT 'JUST DOGS,' they are Zane and Bingo, two distinct personalities.
If one of them should happen to be adopted on his own or put to sleep without the other one — the hellish facts of those occurrences will be on all of our heads. If both are killed because nobody wants them, well…I’ve shed tears for many dogs in my life. All the tears in the world won’t bring them back. Dead is dead.
Save them, Dear Animal People, by emailing the shelter at fwacctag@fortworthtexas.gov. 
More details on these dogs in a minute. For now, just save them and know that you’ve done the best thing for a pair of living beings that’s been done since you woke up this morning. Zane and Bingo — two dogs to love.
ALL THE UNWANTED ANIMALS
ARE NOT IN TARRANT COUNTY
Good grief, how in the world is it that an area of eleventy-zillion people can’t find homes for just three Carrollton dogs.
Vanessa Johnson, the Senior Animal Care Specialist at the City of Carrollton, the town nestled against the northside of Dallas, issued an appeal earlier for help with some dogs and, then, on Tuesday send a note written in red that reads, “WE HAVE NOT RECEIVED ANY TAGS FOR ANY OF THE DOGS! PLEASE KEEP SHARING AND POSTING!”
This appeal went to people and organizations that have helped Carrollton Animal Services before in tight spots. It reads, “The Carrollton Spotlight list is transitioning to become a call to action for support and care of animals that are scheduled for euthanasia.

“Staff at the Carrollton Animal Services & Adoption Center are using this renewed approach to reach out to our supporting rescue groups for assistance with saving some of our more difficult-to-place or special needs animals. The Adoption Center has had great success in placing the adoptable animals, but some, because of size, disposition, or special conditions, have not been placed and are in immediate need of rescue support. Although we have avoided the use of the word 'urgent,' the fact is, your support is desperately needed to save these animals.”
And there’s this sentence:
"If these animals are not rescued or adopted by 5 pm on Friday, July 30, 2021, they may need to be considered for euthanasia.”
That’s because, on a city shelter, there is no sign reading “no more animals being accepted.” City shelters must, by law, accept whatever is brought to them. 
Here are the contact points for these animals: Phone 972-466-3420; Fax 972-466-4873; or email vanessa.johnson@cityofcarrollton.com 
That first pup is Tilly, a spayed Cattle Dog who is about 3 and weighs 30 pounds and is up-to-date on her shots. She is “rescue only.” Her bio reads that she is a stray who is a “ typical Cattle Dog and can take time to warm up to new people. She is a sweet girl once she gets comfortable with you. She walks well on a leash and appears to be house trained. Because Tilly can be a bit shy with new people, we are looking for an approved 501c3 rescue group to pull her and help her find her new furever home. Tilly has been with us since May 10, 2021.”

The second pup is Calypso, a 2-year-old, 59-pound spayed Pittie mix who is also up-to-date on shots. She is available for adoption. Her bio reads, “She came into the shelter as a stray. Calypso can be a little shy meeting new people and takes some time to warm up. She appears to be house-trained and walks well on leash. Calypso has been with us since May 27, 2021.”

That brings us to the boy dog, Homie, a Retriever mix who is about 6, weighs 79 pounds and is up-to-date on his shots. He’s also available for adoption right now.
His bio reads, “He came into the shelter as an owner-surrender. He has lived with a smaller dog but has never been around cats. Homie is a laid-back guy, who walks well on leash and is house trained. Homie is an older guy just looking for a couch to lay his head on. Homie has been with us since June 4, 2021.”

[LARRY ASIDE: Here is the horrible statement of the way things really are: “We will not be able to hold them past Friday, July 30, 2021, at 5:00 p.m.” That’s when the time runs out on the clock. Saving these lives is up to people. May hearts be touched by their faces and their stories. There’s too much death in this world already; we need to stop killing animals just to make room for more animals waiting to be killed. That’s not a new thought to people who have been rescuers for longer than about 20 minutes.]
A DOG NAMED CHASE
IS A ‘LITTLE LIVEWIRE’
As you can tell in the photo with the blurry dog image, this guy Chase is the “livewire.” He’s a Retriever mix, about 5 months old. He weighs 30 pounds. Chase came into the Mesquite Animal Shelter on July 22, reports the volunteer dog biographer Debra Chisholm. She writes, “This is one little live-wire with lots of puppy energy.  He bounded and raced around the room in which he was being evaluated.  He is a confident, outgoing, tail-wagging bundle of personality!!!  He did jump on me quite a bit so manners classes would certainly be in order. 
"He walks sometimes on a leash but when I took him from and returned him to his kennel he had to be carried.  He was intimidated and so scared of the other dogs who were barking at him that he just froze.”
To ask about giving a "safe home" to this “friendly and sweet-natured puppy” use the ID#48279353 when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.
MEANWHILE BACK
AT LANCASTER
The folks with 4-Legged Helpers, the non-profit that focuses on small, largely unvisited shelters in the Dallas area, remind us that the Lancaster Animal Shelter is “still full — more dogs daily — if you rescue, you save a life!”

And one life you can save is that of the very beautiful Husky Snow White. Her bio reads, “This stunningly gorgeous dog is all white with ocean blue eyes.  She was brought to the shelter by someone that could no longer care for her - she can apparently be really good at getting over a fence.  A nice indoor home with large privacy fence might be best for this sweet beautiful dog.  
"Please, won't you help save her?”
And, of course, one of the animals still waiting in Lancaster is this girl Laney — the cat who has bounced between shelters.
She is back at Lancaster because nobody wanted her at the second shelter.

To ask about any Lancaster animal, call or text 4-Legged Helpers at 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com.
BACK TO THE BONDED PAIR,
THE BUDDIES ZANE & BINGO
These two have been in the care of Fort Worth Animal Care and Control for weeks and weeks. Nobody wants them.
Their owner handed them over to the shelter on APRIL THIRTEENTH!
“Moving” was the reason. 
Bingo (#47532438) is heartworm positive. He’s 3 years old, 74-pounds and neutered.
Zane (#47532418) is 6, weighs 147 pounds, is neutered and heartworm negative. 
When taken on a walk at the shelter, the boys were happy to be playing together, a shelter staffer who gave them a chance. 
They’re in the FWACC North Animal Campus at 351 Hillshire in FW. To ask about adopting or tagging, email fwacctag@fortworthtexas.gov. Remember, save ‘em all and these two are among them “all.”
TWO TOP SHELTER NOTES;
OPERATION KINDNESS, SPCA
Big news from Operation Kindness for Thursday. The shelter is reopening for “in-person adoptions” after being “closed to the public” for more than a year — thank you Covid 19. Sheesh. A news release says there’ll be a ribbon cutting ceremony and, in gratitude for community support during the Pandemic, a grand opening open house for new construction starting at 10 a.m. Thursday at the shelter, 3201 Earhart Drive in Carrollton. (See www.operationkindness.org.)
The news release quotes Operation Kindness CEO Ed Jamison as saying, "We're extremely excited for the grand opening event as it's our way of showing gratitude for the community support we’ve received through construction and the pandemic. Operation Kindness has always been a community-driven shelter, and we're proud of that fact. To have the opportunity to open for in-person adoptions means we not only get to see everyone again, but we will continue our journey and mission to provide animals with loving families.”
WHAT'S IN THE CLOSET AT THE SPCA OF TEXAS where they’re already working on the 2021 Fur Ball (Oct. 2 at the Hyatt Regency)? Consider the latest promotion from the SPCA of Texas. Basically, it’s a “cleaning out” of the closet that holds items donated for the annual Fur Ball fundraiser. Buy a “Mystery Box,” get some cool stuff and help some animals find some homes — that’s kind of the bottom line. Read about Mystery Box 2021 on the SPCA site HERE.
CONTEMPLATIONS
ADVERTISING, GUTTERS & SPATULAS
I see many things in today’s advertising that I never expected to see: Women shaving areas that in my pre-teen years were regarded as “fictional,” a guy in his underwear boldly discussing why those brief are comfortable and nearly constant commercials for meds that will, as the ol’ line used to go before researchers caught up with fiction, “cure ya or kill ya.” If medicines didn’t need cautions in their commercials and on their “explanatory papers,” there’d be a whole bunch of medical-minded lawyers switching to criminal law and divorce cases. …
It used to be that the scariest ads on TV were medical, but now, on the channels I watch, the most terrifying commercials have to do with gutters on the roof of your house. Seen those? Some kind of gadget keeps ‘em unclogged and keeps you off ladders and safe from certain tragedy. Nowadays, I can’t even park in our driveway without wondering what calamity is coming because we don’t have gutters.  It isn’t like we have a lot of rain — the only thing that runs down gutters in Texas is big bugs and fuzzy varmints. … 

Back to the racy commercials for undergarments and razors: You can imagine my surprise when I got an email with this wholesome subject line: “Dazzling spatulas, aprons and dish towels!” I’ve never before seen a spatula referred to as “dazzling.” Liked the Christmas Donkey Towel, however. And I’m waiting to see the Dazzling Old Farmers Almanac Galluses in a TV commercial during ol’ detective reruns — and by ol’ detectives I mean guys who needed some help holding their trousers in place. Relax, youngsters, it’s OK to say “galluses” in church and on TV. Use “galluses” in a sentence? OK. Try this: “Two space galluses collided over Texas and the fireball set off UFO reports all over the nation.” Relax, the authorities say no gussets were harmed.
— Offer galactic information or tips for financing spaceflights by clicking on ‘comment’ below or email dallrp@aol.com and put “NOTE FROM INTELLIGENT READER ON MARS” in the subject line. —

IN A HOT TIME IN TEXAS, THERE ARE SOME COOL CRITTERS NEEDING HOMES

EDITION OF TUESDAY, July 27, 2021 [PetPowellPress] We endured the planned power outage in our neighborhood Monday morning. I was sitting outside in the cool morning air re-reading Norwood, published in 1966 and the first book by Charles Portis -- you may recall his second book, True Grit. 

The Oncor team had promised power would resume by noon but at 11:28 a.m., suddenly in the silence of my reading, every a/c unit in the neighborhood clicked on! Congrats to the Oncor team! That simultaneous “Click,whrrrrrrr” was music to a Texan’s ears on a 100-degree day. Click, whrrrrrrrrr. Such a beautiful sound. 
Porche and Wendy, who’d been sitting in the shade with me, immediately jumped up and raced to the back door. They know the joys of air-conditioning. More Norwood, heat and writing advice in Contemplations.
THE CAT LEFT, CAME BACK; NOW
WAITS FOR A RIDE OR A NEEDLE
There are shelters that will not adopt black cats around Halloween. This ain’t Halloween, chums, and that’s a black cat on the clock. She’s Laney, spayed and microchipped available now at the Lancaster Animal Shelter.
The shelter had "sent her to another shelter that offered to help,” according to a note from 4-Legged Helpers, the non-profit that monitors and helps Lancaster promote its animals. Alas, that other shelter “just sent her back saying they are now too full and her time was up.” 
She’s back at Lancaster. An “absolute sweetie,” the Helpers say.
To ask about helping Laney with the fantastic tail, call or text 4-Legged Helpers at 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com.
MEANWHILE IN FERRIS, one of the small shelters monitored by the 4-Legged Helpers, we have this canine dramatic presentation. 
That dog encouraging the shelter helper to give her some enjoyable backscratching is Sweetie who, the Helpers say, lives up to her name. And, in the sec- ond photo you can see that she also knows how to be held and get ready to doze off. This is a 43-pound girl Boxer/Retriever mix currently awaiting a rescue in the Ferris Shelter.
And if you want some feline affection, among the cats and kittens in Ferris who are waiting for a good home that scratch-happy momma (or might be momma) cat currently named Alyssa. She’s a Tiger Tabby who is “graceful, sweet and gentle” and “adores people.”
As is the system, call or text 4-legged Helpers
at 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com.

AND THEN THERE’S WILMER’s situation. The shelter is not large, not set up for human traffic, doesn’t take cats and has a prob- lem finding room for dogs. The current headlining dog in Wilmer’s care is Blue, described as “a beautiful girl with sky blue eyes” who may be “some sort of small Shepherd or smooth Collie mix.”
Someone brought her to the shelter, left her, photos were taken and there’s not a spot for her longer than a “little while.”
Wilmer works with 4-Legged Helpers to try to help animals find homes. Once again, call or text 4-Legged Helpers at 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com.
BACK TO SMITH COUNTY
WHERE THE CLOCK TICKS…
A couple of weeks ago we posted a note about the crowded Smith County Animal Shelter lining up dogs to euthanize to make room for more dogs who’d be on the clock.
Our tipster, the devoted-to-saving-animals Kimberly Jones, reported later that there’d been many lives saved. Now comes this note with a whole bunch more dogs on the clock. The note, from Smith County Pets Alive, which monitors the Tyler shelter’s condition in order to keep the inventory low (and moving!), reports that the dogs in this note “are all urgent and need to be adopted or tagged for rescue on or before Thursday 7/29.”
 If not? “They will be killed on Friday 7/30,” SC Pets Alive reports. 
These are some — but NOT ALL of the animals at peril. To ask about helping them, contact Smith County Animal Control in Tyler at 903-266-4303 or email shelter@smith-county.com. 
And, to get involved with Smith County Pets Alive, email smithcountydogs@gmail.com.
TRINITY GAP CLUB
TRIUMPHS AND NEEDS
We’ve told the story many times through the years of how Trinity GAP Club evolved as a wonderful force in the rescue of animals after being developed by the Euless Trinity High School Girls Awareness Program.
 And, as we mention this, it seems only appropriate to note that the Girls Awareness Program has drawn the attention of a young man named Jayson. On the GAP Facebook page, there were photos of Jayson posing with the result of his work. GAP wrote, “A huge thank you to Jayson! This young man raised over 2,000 pounds of dog food for the Euless Animal Shelter for his birthday. This is so awesome. Thank you, Jayson!” (Click on the art to make it grow!)
Among the dogs GAP Rescue is trying to help is this guy Zak. “His current temporary foster said he is one of the sweetest dogs and a big cuddle bug. Sadly, they can’t continue to foster because their older dog does not enjoy a puppy. Zak is potty-trained, leash-trained and knows basic commands. He gets along excellently with other dogs and children. Please contact steffeniegaprescue@gmail.com if you can foster or would like to adopt Zak. He is fully vetted. Otherwise, he is headed back to the shelter on Wednesday.”

And, if you're in the mood for an entertaining cat, on the Gap website trinitygaprescue.org you can see this fixed fellow Koi giving himself a good stretch in preparation for either jumping up or curling up — cats have constant built-in options!
Remember, Trinity GAP Rescue works with Euless Animal Services to get animals out of the shelter via rescue or adoption. Many of the animals wind up in a good foster home that teaches the to be the perfect pup or cuddly cat for an adoption. 
See animals in GAP’s care trinitygaprescue.org.
And see Euless Shelter’s waiting animals by going HERE. You’ll see 8-year-old, 8-pound, heartworm-positive Chihuahua George. He likes to shop and also likes to watch TV on the couch. Perfect dog for a civilized human being.
And this cat is Cali the Dilute Calico, a 15-year-old girl who has a magnificent purr. Needs to be in a calm and quiet home without small kids. And there’s this: Purrs when being brushed. The Euless Animal Shelter can be phoned at 817-685-1549.
CONTEMPLATIONS
A FILM, THE TEMP AND PRECISION
As I was waiting out the electric line repairs in our block Monday morning, I really was enjoying the writing in Charles Portis’ novel Norwood. I’ve only re-read it one other time since I bought a new copy of in 1967. That was before it was made into a movie (released in 1970) starring the guitar-picking singing star Glen Campbell and the Super Bowl victory predictor, QB Joe Namath of the New York Jets. Glen Campbell of Delight, Ark., and Broadway Joe — you can’t make that stuff up. Neither was nominated for an Oscar. Female lead in Norwood? Kim Darby who also portrayed spunky Mattie Ross in the 1969 film version of Mr. Portis’ beloved True Grit (with Glen Campbell as a Texas Ranger getting “hooraw’d” by Arkansas Deputy Marshall Rooster Cogburn, John Wayne’s Oscar-winning role. ) True Grit, the book, was released in 1968, Norwood the book two years earlier. Ah, the good ol’ days of novels as entertainment. Of course, we all read back then. …
THE HEAT IS ON? By the arrival of autumn at 2:21 p.m. Texas time on Sept. 22, my Sweatfreespouse Martha and I will be able to say that our a/c unit ran from sometime in late March or early April all the way to autumn except from 9:28 a.m. to 11:28 a.m. on Monday, July 26. And that is why Texas is the true test for an air-conditioning system. It’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon. …

As a longtime newspaper editor I sometimes cautioned reporters to be precise in their writing. While reading a local neighborhood bulletin board Monday I found this message from a member of the forum: “I cannot wait to vote this imbecile out of office.” Once again I am compelled to suggest “write clearly — which of the imbeciles in office?"
— Offer precision ideas or spray some thoughts by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and feel free to use DEAR IMBECILE in the salutation. —-

ARE HUMANS GOOD SCRATCHERS; HELPING GREYHOUNDS; SAVING SHELTER ANIMALS; COPING WITH HEAT DURING A POWER OUTAGE

EDITION OF MONDAY, JULY 26, 2021 [PetPowellPress] Here’s something else at which dogs are superior to so many of us human beings: Scratching. I am human and I’m a lousy dog scratcher. 
On Sunday, during an Olympics broadcast of some sport nobody in the house embraces (fencing with a foil), Dudley The Angel, walked up to me as I sat on the couch. I then leaned over to hug him and do the “Who’s a good boy? Who’s a good boy?” routine, which he endured with a patient higher-IQ smile.
 Then I spent some time scratching his big ol’ furry neck with the unlicensed-to-massage fingers of both hands, went behind his ears, under his chin, along his ribs and on his belly. Then he walked off and flopped down as if to say, “Nice try, Knuckles.”
 Yeah, I love the guy. He’s so patient with me. He keeps coming back for my scratching as if he thinks I’ve been going to Canine Hands-on-Human Training and Comfort Classes. Later in the day, in the office, he let me scratch his head -- it was an "I'm-givin'-ya-one-more-chance" moment.
THE ROLE OF GREYHOUNDS
IN THE EARHOUND COMMUNITY
While researching info about the Greyhound Adopiton League of Texas’ latest fundraising effort, we discovered this trio of photographs of Dogs of Expression.

 

 

 

They’re adoptables via GALT’s site at galtx.org. As you can see, they can send messages with their ears. 

Candy’s suggesting move to her left, Harry says “Move to my right” and Mac says, “Bring it in, Skipper, you’re right on the beam.”

They are some of the dogs who’ll benefit from the Greyt Auction for Happy Hound Homes which started on the 21st and runs through 9 p.m. on Saturday the 31st. The event is a highlight of the 20th anniversary celebration of the founding of GALT. Since GALT launched its mission, the non-profit has found homes “for more than 3,700 Greyhounds, other sighthounds and hound-mixes,” GALT says. Go to galtx.org to see the story of GALT and how it relies on — and appreciates — “adopters, fosters, volunteers and donors.” 
Auction items include art, gift cards, doggie treats and toys, purses, jewelry and lots of other things. Click HERE TO SEE HOW TO BID AND WHAT TO BID ON TO HELP GALT.  One of the items up for auction is this Greyhound print (signed by artist Lynn Dubnikca) and in a “floating frame with easel.” [LARRY ASIDE: I don’t know that beautiful dog’s name but I’m betting it isn’t “Spot.”]
MEANWHILE IN MESQUITE,
DIAMOND NEEDS SOME HELP
We got the tip on this girl from volunteer dog biographer Debra Chisholm who says “Precious Diamond” — there’s a hint of how Debra regards the girl — has been in Mesquite Animal Shelter since July 3. She was brought in with a broken foot, a vet put a cast on her leg and foot and Debra says, it was “recommended that she be taken to an orthopedic surgeon.” Afterward, another vet visit led to a decision to not wrap the leg again and she was “not to walk on it” so healing would be enhanced. Thus, Diamond is waiting in quarantine for someone to claim her so she can become the great canine love of a family’s heart. She’s 3, weighs about 60 pounds and is spayed. She came into the shelter as a stray, but her former owners decided "they couldn’t help her or take care of her." She’s #48137492 at the shelter. Use that ID when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com. Same contact info for other Mesquite dogs and cats, too.
This obviously affectionate girl is Patsy, a Pittie/Staffie mix who came in on the 17th as a stray. She’s “a spunky 2-year-old,” Debra says. The 68-pound dog knows some commands and is motivated by treats. And, her bio reads, “Patsy is a climber and likes climbing on a chair and bench during the photo session, wanting to up up and sit next ot a volunteer to whom she promptly gave some sloppy kisses.” Patsy is #48244951. 

Debra’s colleague in dog-writing, our pal Judi Brown, provided a bio of Nova, this “low-rider with a long body,” a possible Jack Russell/Rat Terrier/Corgi mix who was “surrendered in the field” to Mesquite Animal Services. She’d recently had a litter and, Judi wrote, “The owners either gave them away or sold them before they had a chance to be weaned. For that reason, Nova’s nipples are still gorged….You can tell from her eyes that she is sad. She huddles at the back of her kennel but she’s very receptive to being loved on. She followed me everywhere I went in the yard. If I sat down, she came immediately to me.” This 34-pound, 4-year-old is #48260217 at the shelter.
Debra provided Polo’s bio. She says Polo, Dog #47998131 (use that ID number when you check with the shelter), first came in on June 15 as a stray, was adopted on the 19th by the person who’d found him and, because Polo had become ill, the adoptor returned him on June 27 “because she did not have the funds to get him the vet care he needed.” The 8-month-old, 39-pound pup has “fully recovered,” Debra wrote, “And is one lively and energetic youngster.” He’s also “playful, friendly, sweet-natured and affectionate.” She says Polo is a bit of a jumper when he’s around people, so he could use some manners training.
Remember, to ask about any animal in the Mesquite Shelter, use the ID number when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmes- quite.com. There are cats in Mesquite, you know. That’s one of them — only girl cat I’ve never seen amed “Bean.” Bean is around 2 years and 4 months old, came in on July 12 and is small and ready for a home.
To see Mesquite’s adorable adoptables, click HERE. 
CONTEMPLATIONS
NO JOKE; THE POWER; A SUMMER SONG
We learned from the online calendar Holiday Insights that the 24th of July was “Tell An Old Joke Day” but I couldn’t remember one that I could repeat. I mean, of course, tell one that I could recall. I’ve been involved in journalism since 1965 and never once heard a joke I couldn’t repeat in front of a congregation — and if you believe that, let me tell you about the time I interviewed Bigfoot life in the forest and spelled his wife’s name wrong. …
NOW ABOUT scratching a dog with respect and responsibility: Think anybody markets “Best Friend Dog-Nailed Gloves — The Perfect Scratchers”? Well, just a thought. Bet they’d sell n the Greater Dogncatroplex. We’re an area that scratches with passion. Not sure how to explain that sentence. …
IT'S TIME TO PRACTICE COPING. The temp is supposed to get to 100 MONDAY. Last Friday, when it was in the mere 90s, the electric company canceled plans to shut down neighborhood power from 9 a.m. to noon — Oncor arranged personal visits to each home in our neighborhood to let us know of the delay. Being a reporter, I asked, "Why?" I was told that a resident who had legal Zoom business with a noted Washington office asked if the powering down could be delayed until Monday. So, on Monday from 9 a.m. to noonish, we’ll be powered-down at readlarrypowell.com. I won’t be talking to the White House, or the Pentagon or the Justice Department or lining up a tour of the Smithsonian for my history-minded cat, The Senator. But we’ll be feeling the heat on behalf of the Oncor workers who’ll be out in the 100-degree temp, up on a pole and much closer to the sun than we are. May everyone work swiftly, efficiently and cooly. In honor of the un-elected people who keep things going across the nation, here’s something from Ol’ Blue Eyes (after a commercial, of course. CLICK HERE AND ENJOY THE BREEZE.
—- Offer chilling advice or warm regards by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put “NO SWEAT” in the subject line. —-

BLACKIE GRABBED THE REMOTE, RAN WITH SCISSORS AND, THUS, WON HIS 'MOM'S' HEART

We’ve been publishing Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap for a years and years and we've mentioned dogs watching TV, but this is the first time we’ve ever used the phrase, “Don’t run with scissors!”
With that, we introduce this week’s spotlighted slumberer, the great little guy Blackie, the adoring and adorable companion of our pal Debbie Cartwright, veteran public relations do-gooder.
Debbie says Blackie — his name has a great link to journalism (keep reading) — was born in April 2018. She found him at the Humane Society of North Texas in Fort Worth -- he was a little, bitty boy, just a handful of puppy.
“The registrar said his mother was Maltese, hence the white leg and chest patch,” Debbie writes. “She was uncertain of the father, but my vet lists him as a terrier.”
And, yes, that is Blackie snoozing between those fantastic shoes in that great “mood photograph.”
Why did Debbie adopt Blackie?

She explains, “The heartbreak of losing my two sibling Chiweenies (adopted in Oklahoma) within six months of each other left me with a home that felt empty and quiet. I'm convinced the loss of one was too much for the other.”
She says the Chiweenies “were named after my favorite grandparents: Sophie and J. T.  I went to Oklahoma to adopt Sophie, but when I held J.T.  I couldn't resist bringing both home. … How could I leave one behind?”
Debbie writes, “After months of mourning, it was time to find a new friend, but finding just the right pup hadn't been easy. I was always just a little too late to adopt what seemed the perfect fit. 
“A wealth of weeks went by. And the search began to feel hopeless.
“Then I saw a little black puppy with a white chest patch at the Tarrant County shelter [Humane Society of North Texas]. The photo revealed an anomaly on his nose. 
“Concluding we'd make the perfect pair of imperfections, I made sure to be first in line at the shelter on a Saturday morning.  Rushing to hold him, I found there was no nose blemish at all. It had just been a bad photo. I wondered if that's why he'd gone unadopted.

“He would be mine.
“As I began the adoption process, him squirming in my arms, the registrar asked if I had a name for him.
“ ‘Blackie’, I said without hesitation. He would be named in honor of my beloved friend and mentor, the late and legendary sportswriter Blackie Sherrod." [FYI: The great newspaper personality was the star writer for decades at The Fort Worth Press, The Dallas Times-Herald and The Dallas Morning News -- a nice guy who loved animals.]
Ah, Blackie the dog won his human's heart. Debbie says, “I brought Blackie home after he'd been neutered and immediately realized what a handful of a high mischievous energy he was. For weeks my new friend was less of a terrier and more of a terrorist.
“From snatching the TV remote to running with scissors, and carrying my shoes outside, I couldn't take my eyes off him. And bringing the outdoors indoors included a squirrel, a bird, a frog and a bucket full of garden rocks.
“But he's at last past the pesky puppy stage and has settled in nicely. He loves to play ball and I love it when he throws his body across mine, his head resting on my shoulder. It's a super snuggle. He translates ‘Blackie, can I have kisses?’ to mean he gets a back rub, which I'm happy to give. I get the kiss thereafter.

 “Slumbering between my legs as I sit in the recliner is his favorite place to nap.
“Yep, Blackie is my bestie.”
[DEAR READERS, tell us about your “besties” and send the stories and the photos to dallrp@aol.com and we’ll publish the package in the internationally read weekend feature Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. Your heartfelt emotions will be encouraging people to make room in their homes for animals who’ll love ‘em back. And you’ll be inspiring insomniacs to believe that they, too, can get some sleep if they can just get the right pair of enchanted slippers for the recliner!]
— Offer cheers and inspirations by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and putting DOGS AND CATS MAKE THE WORLD BETTER in the subject line. —-

(1) HUMANS HAVE THE CHANCE TO DO GOOD THINGS....& (2) THE POWER WILL BE SHUT OFF

EDITION OF THURSDAY/FRIDAY JULY 22/23, 2021 [PetPowellPress] Here’s are three words from the electric company that will send a chill up and down your spine during a hot spell in July in Texas: Service Interruption Notice. 
They’re swapping out equipment “used to provide electricity to your home,” the door-hanger note read. The light on this computer will go dim on Friday morning — matching the person who types on it, of course. So, before the lights go out, here’s what we’ve found on Thursday. That kitten is Jasper — he’s only 8 weeks old and to our knowledge is unaware of the concept of “service interruption.” We’ll tell you more about him in a minute. Cute boy, ain’t he!
And before we go on with this edition, an afternoon check with Fort Worth Animal Care & Control reveals that Zane the German Shepherd and Bingo the Best Friend are still waiting for someone to save their lives in a permanent way — rescue or adoption. Our source at FWACC reminds us that while they don’t do so swell with other dogs or animals, “but they are great together.” Been at the shelter since April 13. Their human surrendered them — was moving. To tag or adopt or ask, email fwacctag@fortworthtexas.gov. No phone calls. [LARRY ASIDE: I guess their devotion to each other grabbed my heart. If they wind up being “put to sleep” because of shelter crowding, well, let’s not let that happen.]
WHAT ABOUT A FERAL CATS
IN A DALLAS NEIGHBORHOOD?
I’ve known Ann Godwin since way back in the last century —she and my funspouse Martha and I worked at The Big Paper in Downtown Dallas, laughed a lot and there’s this: We love dogs and cats. That’s sweet neighborhood-born Abigail having a “We’ve got to save these ferals” conversation with Ann.
She and her neighbors in Oak Cliff (west of Westmoreland, north of Illinois) have a challenge that isn’t uncommon in Dallas: Feral cats and kittens. Counting newborns and the adults, there may be as many as 20 unwanted felines who need help.

Ann wants to get them safely into a “better place” — spayed/neutered and adoptable. So, Dear Animalfan Readers, Ann wants to know: Is there a non-profit that can help the neighborhood control a feral cat colony? Where should these neighbors take kittens to get them spayed/neutered and ready for socializing and adopting? Is there a no-cost spay/neuter program they can approach? And is there a non-profit that can help them trap, spay/neuter and release or adopt?
 These are constant questions in Dallas, the world’s most fertile cat town. [LARRY ASIDE: Those fertile cats are evidence that some people never consider asking themselves, “Am I an idiot if I don’t get my dogs and cats fixed before I open the door and tell the girl cats ‘Don’t you come back pregnant!’ and the boys ‘Wear protection!.”? When it comes to cats and dogs there are a ton of people who don’t understand the birds and bees.]
IF YOU CAN HELP ANN FIND A WAY TO ‘SAVE ‘EM ALL’ IN THE CAT NEIGHBORHOOD, EMAIL ANN AT ggmemurr@sbcglobal.net and copy your advice to me at DALLRP@AOL.COM. And, yes, that’s one of the momma cats and her babies. And there’s another mommy called Ebony who, Ann writes, “has had at least two litters. My neighbors next door are feeding them all.”
—Spay and neuter. Spay and neuter. —
MEANWHILE, BACK IN B’PORT,
HERE ARE TWO MORE…
Bridgeport, the little town with the small shelter and the big animal population, is northwest of Fort Worth and in the previous edition we cited Grayson the Kitten and Bo the Handsome Dog.
That wonderful orange and white Tabby boy is Jasper. He’s been living “in a home environment,” has been “checked over by a vet” and is “a delightful little baby. Loves children. Loves dogs. Loves other cats. Just as precious as can be,” reads the bio of this maybe 8-week-old handsome fellow.
Among the dogs in the shelter’s care is this 49-pound, full-grown young female Bulldog mix Bridget. 
Her bio says she is “one of the sweetest little bulldog mixes you could meet anywhere … Very sweet, and very good girl who loves and adores everyone and everything. Always smiling — so adorable.” 

To ask about any animal in the Bridgetport shelter -- wait, that's Bridgeport, Bridget's the dog --- , call or text 214-949-2726 or 214-906-7680 (leave a message if “we miss you,”) or by emailing Laura at cat_girl_71@yahoo.com.
The hard-working angels with the non-profit 4-Legged Friends are helping with communications between the animals and potential adoptors and rescuers.
TWO MEDICAL APPEALS
FROM LANCASTER SHELTER
Aubrey is this young Retriever mix who arrived at the Lancaster Animal Shelter on Wednesday afternoon and, as of Thursday PM, still needed help with her right front leg. “Desperately needs a rescue group,” according to the 4-Legged Helpers tipsters who monitor Lancaster.
But there’s also this big shelter challenge — Aubrey “has a couple of spots of fur missing on her side that the shelter believes could potentially be ringworm.” Sometimes “ringworm” can be a death sentence in a city shelter. (Not sure of Lancaster’s policy.)
And there’s Ashlin, a young female American Bulldog mix who, as you can see, has an affectionate and trusting side. But she needs some medical care. Initially on Wednesday it was thought that she might have parvo, but a vet test proved that to be not the case. But she is anemic and, the vet reported, that may be “related to some type of internal infection.”
The Helpers say she was an owner-release and this dog’s original name was Hazel. She needs out of the shelter to get her health back in proper order. The bio reads, “This little 7-8-month-old girl has th most stunningly beautiful face and eyes. Her eyes look like she is wearing eyeliner.
To help these dogs, call or text the Helpers at 214-949-2726 or 214-906-7680 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com.
A CLIMBER IS WAITING
IN THE MESQUITE SHELTER
I saw that photo of the Siberian Husky with the long tongue and thought “This answers the question ‘What does a Siberian Husky look like when its home is Texas in the summer?’”

Yep, that’s Daisy, about 2 years-old, 52 pounds, not spayed and a “frisky and perky girl,” according to our tipster the volunteer Mesquite Animal Shelter dog biographer Debra Chisholm. Daisy came in as a stray on the 12th.

Here’s the passage that caught my attention: "This girl will need a secure fence,” Debra wrote, then explained, “One day in her kennel, she scaled the 6 foot door and was perched on the top before one of the officers helped her down and placed her in a kennel with a ceiling.  She will need a high and secure fence--probably an 8-foot one.  There is so much to like about this lovable and sweet girl.” 

She’s #48200995 in the shelter. Use that ID number when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.
And, of course, it's very clear that this is not just a Husky, Daisy is also an Earhound. Picks up any broadcast from space!

CONTEMPLATIONS
HOT ENOUGH FOR YA? THE CATS
ARE CALLING THEIR LAWYERS
Why readlarrypowell.com is watching the temperature predictions for Friday: The electric company left on a note on the doors in our neighborhood saying that the power will be off between 9 a.m. and noon Friday for repairs on the lines. Conditions were so much cooler in February. I guess they were busy doing something else. I’m breaking the news to the dogs and cats during a late-night snack — no sense setting ‘em off in the daytime and having ‘em fret every time the a/c cuts off. That's my dog Porche Noel squinting in the noontime sun on Thursday. She's good for about 3 minutes outside on a sunny day.
GRAMMAR NOTE: The electric company note actually said the electricity would be shut off beginning at 9 a.m. …with restoration…around 12 pm.” Well, as any ol’ editor or person who understands the passage of time will tell you, 12 is a precise moment on the clock. It is the dividing line between a.m. and p.m. There is no 12 p.m. There also is no 12 a.m. There’s a noon and a midnight. The daytime 12 noon is the exact moment that is the dividing line between a.m. and p.m., just as the nocturnal 12 midnight is the p.m./a.m. line of demarcation.
Telling someone the “power will be back on at 12 p.m.” is not a precisely informative expression. 11:59:59 a.m. tick 12:00:00 then tick 12:00:01 p.m. I hope this has been clear as the face on a Rolex.
POWER UP? Of course, if the electric crew doesn’t get the power and the air conditioning back on by noon Friday, they won’t be able to get the time of day from my dogs or my cats as the crew waits for help getting down the ladders from the power lines. Dawdlers will hear from my litigious cat The Senator and his legal counsel, the internationally powerful Claude Peydei of Feleine, S’kat, Spatt, Sfpit, Yowell & Rich, Attorneys-at-Law. In the meantime, we’d like to order up a cold front slowly, kindly, moving across our neighborhood from 9 .m. to noon-thirty Friday. We are too mature to need a hot time in the old town Friday night.
—- Offer chill advice or cool ideas by clicking on ‘comment’ below or email dallrp@aol.com and put ‘WATCH OUT FOR THE ICEBERG’ in the subject line. —-

BINGO AND ZANE STILL WAITING; LOTS OF DOGS AND CATS; AND WHAT ABOUT CDC DOG BAN?

EXTRA EDITION OF WEDNESDAY, JULY 21, 2021 [PetPowellPress] We don’t have anything as upbeat as Wally Funk’s ride to space for this edition, but we do have opportunities to create moments of celebrations for dogs and cats.
Oh, and we’ll look at the Centers for Disease Control's recent rule for bringing dogs into the United States from countries that aren’t quite sensitive to rabies prevention. After hearing stories and appeals about the "ban," we found the CDC announcement. We’ll get to it after helping these dogs that are right here in the “neighborhood.” 

And one more thing. Yes, the whole rescue system is stretched thin these days, but, holy smokin’ frustration, why is it these two bonded boys Zane and Bingo are still on the danger list? Remember, they were “surrendered” to Fort Worth Animal Care and Control because their owner was moving. That was April 13. These bonded dogs have survived this long, but the countdown is on. Here’s the bottom line for them: Bingo (#47532438) is a 3-year-old, 74-pound mixed-breed who is “thoroughly bonded” with Zane (#47532418), a 6-year-old, 147-pound German Shepherd. Bingo is heartworm positive, Zane is negative. The dogs have charmed shelter staffers. But, so far, no dice on moving off the path to being just a memory of two dogs nobody saved. Tag or adopt by emailing fwacctag@fortworthtexas.gov. No phone calls.
[LARRY NOTE: It really is disturbing that these two dogs are not already in a rescue or a home. They have made it this far in life and now face the needle because of human behavior. Look, we’re loaded with animals at our house or they’d have a spot. Many of you are in the same shape. Got to be someone we know who has room for two pals with much left to give. Pass ‘em on.]
A QUICK LOOK AT ANIMALS
WAITING IN BRIDGEPORT

We’re just featuring two of many in the Bridgeport Animal Shelter — it’s also one of the area’s crowded facilities. 
 This kitten is Grayson, described as “a baby male, blue & white.” Also, the 8-week-old is —heard this before? — “precious and sweet as can be. That’s generally the way kittens develop, right?
And this dogface belongs to the “cute, cute boy” Bo. He’s got “Pointer-type ears,” his bio reads. And he has “some cute spots, too.” In addition to being a dignified mix of assorted breeds, the shelter theory is “some Dalmatian could be mixed in there.”
Promotion of adoptions and rescues at the Bridgeport Shelter, about an hour northwest of Fort Worth in Wise County, has been taken up by 4-Legged Helpers. To ask about Bo or Grayson or any animal in the Bridgeport shelter, call or text 214-949-2726 or 214-906-7680 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com.
BEST FRIENDS AVAILABLE
AT MESQUITE’S SHELTER
Every shelter has a collection of adorable animals and each animal has a story that might not be so adorable. The common need: a safe place to go.
Mesquite Animal Shelter volunteer dog biographer Debra Chisholm sent us this story of “spunky, adorable” Tippy, maybe 4 1/2 months old and 28 pounds and enduring a broken back left leg — probably struck by a car, the general theory holds. He came into the shelter on July 6. Shelter staff took him to a vet who found the break on the pup’s leg and now the mission is to get him into a safe place and to get his leg repaired so he can grow up and be the dog he was born to be. While he’s not yet a leash-walking dog, Tippy (getting around pretty good on that leg) is “friendly and playful, enjoys attention, likes playing with toys and has the absolute sweetest nature,” Debra writes, adding that it is “imperative” that he get help for his leg now. He’s #48156679.
This long-drink-of-canine is Gonzalez, a mixed breed who arrived as a stray on July 12. He’s about 2 and underweight at 34 pounds. Debra writes, “his cutest feature is the smattering of freckles across his nose.” Walks well on a leash and, when in the shelter yard, “had his note to the ground scouting out all the interesting smells.” A bit skittish, not exactly friendly or unfriendly but standoffish. “He is a work in progress,” Debra says. He’s #42853210. Some human patience and understanding would probably turn him into “a treasured pet,” she says.

Check out that face. It belongs to Galaxy (#48198699), a year-and-a-half old Alaskan Malamute described as “so happy he even prances,” by Mesquite volunteer dog biographer Judi Brown.
He arrived at the shelter on July 12 — yep, a 65-pound stray. But he brought a good spirit with him. Judi writes, “He’s an absolutely delightful, friendly, joyful, loving dog! He’s so happy that he even prances and bounces when he walks! He gives kisses and his tail wags constantly. He does get excited and will jump on you. That’s some thing that needs to be worked on, but because he’s so eager to please I suspect he would learn quickly not to do this. He sits for treats and sometimes he is so eager to please he sits before you even ask him to. He stays close. He likes to have his ears scratched. He is extremely soft, making him very cuddly.”
To ask about this prancing cuddler, use his ID when you call the shelter at l 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.
And these two are Jezebel (#46479568) and Dino (#46479555), surrendered to the shelter on July 20. Same litter, Judi theorizes. “Their previous owners were moving in with another family and were not able to bring them along.” 
Jezebel was initially shy, but she warmed up and her personality “began to shine.” Dino is “friendly and his tail wags constantly.” 
Initially, when Judi started to pet Jezebel, she’d cower. The people who surrendered the dogs said that Dino “is afraid of the broom. Jezebel weighs 20 pounds, Dino weighs 31. Both are “fixed.” They get along with each other, but Jezebel may not get along so swell with other dogs. 
Judi says, “Jezebel is exceptionally cute with a winning personality” and says she may be quickly adopted. And she writes of Dino, “I just can’t say enough about this boy. He has so many sterling qualities.” Remember, use their ID numbers when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.
Use that contact info when you ask about Perry [#48228641], a “stocky, south 3-year-old Blue ‘terrier Pit’ with some white on his chest and paws.” He weighs 71 pounds and has a strong pull on the leash, Judi writes, adding, “Other than that, he’s gentle.”
She also says, “He hangs back a little bit at first but can be won over with TLC and treats. Once trust is built he stays close by your side. He’s well mannered and does not attempt to jump on you. He sits for treats. He chases toys but does not retrieve them. He loses interest quickly. He came to me and just sat next to me looking up at me with his quirky little ears!  …He does not make a good presentation at his kennel because he’s protective and lunges at his window. However, once you go in the kennel or get him out he does not act like that.  …
"He likes the AC.
"It didn’t take long before he wanted to get back into the shelter to cool down!”
Click HERE  to see more Mesquite animals, including cats and kittens.
Among the felines are 2-year-old Mama Madrid and this year-old young girl with the far-from-seasonal name, “Snowball!”

CONTEMPLATIONS
THE CDC DOG RULE
Perhaps you’ve heard news stories about the “dog ban” issued by the Centers for Disease Control. It may be one of those “wait and see what happens” situations.
While driving late Tuesday afternoon I heard a commentary program’s interview with a woman who was concerned because the CDC was banning the “import” of dogs from “high risk rabies countries.”
 This would affect, she told host Tucker Carlson, rescuing dogs from China, dogs adopted while people were overseas in diplomatic or military service, etc. 
She said banning dogs from China would result in “catastrophe” there. [LARRY ASIDE: China is already famous for treating dogs as food. So, the catastrophe has been underway for quite some time. But this is a new situation.] 
At least one radio show Wednesday morning piggybacked on the Tucker Carlson interview. The CDC was the target of criticism. 
We also found a New York Times story from June 14 about this “international dogs ban.” Here’s the LINK and its headline reads “U.S. To Ban Dogs From Over 100 Countries Amid Concern Over Spread of Rabies.”
 But what does the CDC rule REALLY say? It’s online.
So we clicked to the CDC site to read the government agency’s incoming dog policy which, the site says, was updated on July 14. You can see it HERE. And at this LINK you can see the list of nations.
Any politics involved? Who know! But China’s dogs are banned “excluding Hong Kong and Taiwan,” the list reads. It also says that in the “Americas & Caribbean,” Cuba’s dogs are banned. 
Mexico and Canada are not on the banned list. 
Here’s the way the CDC announcement reads:
“Beginning July 14, 2021, there is a temporary suspension for dogs imported from high-risk countries for dog rabies. CDC has the authority to issue a CDC Dog Import Permit for US citizens and lawful residents relocating from high-risk countries to bring their dogs into the United States. Such permits will be issued on an extremely limited basis.”
There is vague wording, i.e., “extremely limited,” for example.
Probably that means “case-by-case decision.” A war hero bringing a bomb-sniffing dog home from Afghanistan surely will get a break.
There is no place in the announcement that addresses bringing rescued dogs into the United States to put them up for adoption. One more thing: If you click on this CDC animal link you’ll find a roundup by Dr. Molly K. Houle, a vet, that touches on not only the “dog ban” but on illegal puppy imports at JFK Airport, “Illegal Importer Tricks,” and Operation Dog Catcher.”
 Worth a read — gives you, perhaps, a whole new view of the smuggling challenge. May be the first time you’ve ever heard the term “port shopping.”
—- Offer advice or concerns by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com. —-

MANY ANIMALS TO SAVE AND YOU DON'T HAVE TO BLAST OFF TOWARD OUTER SPACE...

EDITION OF TUESDAY/WEDNESDAY JULY 20/21, 2021 [PetPowellPress] As I was typing that dateline I realized that this edition is for 20/21 of 2021. I may open a numerology/psychic salon if the stars are right. Speaking of the future, I watched the Bezos sub-orbital launch Tuesday morning and while space looks like space when you’re in it, the landscape around the capsule landing site could have been either West Texas or Mars. More on the future, the Moon and Mankind in Contemplations. FYI: I found that photo of Van Horn and its horizontal speed limit online -- may not be a vertical speed limit. Van Horn is around 520 miles west of Dallas. The Bezos flight went 65 miles high. FYI: Drive 65 miles west of Dallas and you'll be on the western edge of Weatherford. This is why, as Star Trek says, space is "the final frontier."
BINGO, SHORT; ZANE, TALL:
MUST BE SAVED TOGETHER
Pardon my astonished attitude. You have got to be kidding me, America. Nobody will save the lives of these two bonded dogs?
We got the update this morning from rescuer/ advocate Jennifer Sellers. She wrote, in bold type: “NO INTEREST IN THESE TWO. THEY WON'T MAKE IT OUT OF THE SHELTER!!! THESE DOGS ARE GORGEOUS!” She also added, “A very qualified dog trainer offered services free to work with these dogs if they need help.”
They are in the Fort Worth Animal Care & Control Shelter and they are on the clock. The shelter is way full, to use an explanatory term that suggests the needle is being readied.
 They’ve been in the shelter 8 weeks. Bingo (47532438) is 3, 74-pounds and heartworm positive. Zane (#47532418) is 6, weighs 147 pounds and heartworm negative. 
They are bonded. They GO TOGETHER. They simply need ONE HUMAN TO GIVE THEM A GOOD HOME. To ask about being the heroic human who save their lives, email fwacctag@fortworthtexas.gov.
[LARRY ASIDE: Good grief, humanity. Tell as many people as you can about all of the animals you see on our website. Save ‘em all.]
AN UPDATE NOTE ON
3 FLOOFIES & TJ THE DOG
We checked with 4-Legged Helpers this morning to see if those Three Floofies — Kasey, Kadie and Perrie — had been rescued. Yes, indeed, 4-Legged Helpers Laura Macias reported.
Kasey and Kadie (left to right) were taken in by Cody’s Friends Rescue. Click HERE.
And this girl Perrie is in the care of Pooch Savers. Click HERE. 
Look, there are many more animals at the Lancaster Animal Shelter.
One of them is this guy TJ, a young Lab/Bulldog mix who has had a role in the shelter’s daily routines. The 4-Legged Helpers note reads, “Because he is so amazing and so great with other dogs, he is being used as a ‘tester dog, meaning when new dogs come in they use him to see if the new dog likes other dogs — TJ loves every dog he meets.” He’s sweet, has “stunning eyes” and “an adorable personality.
"
No matter how sweet and cheerful he is, TJ is still on the needle clock at the shelter. 
To offer to save TJ’s life, call or text 972-897-4928 or 214-906-7680 or email leighannmc@att.net, fourleggedfosters@yahoo.com or cat_girl_71@yahoo.com. 
And a visit to 4-Legged Helpers Inc.’s Facebook page HERE will show many of the other animals that this hard-working organization is putting in the spotlights of “Needs Rescue” and “Needs Adoption.”
GOOD DOGS, GOOD DOGS, NEED
GOOD HUMANS, GOOD HUMANS
We’ve got three bios from Mesquite Animal Services volunteer dog writer Judi Brown. These are some of many animals at the city’s shelter. Judi and fellow biographer Debra Chisholm meet the animals they write about — if you’re thinking you want to adopt one, the info you read is gathered first-hand — they pet the dogs; they give the dogs treats. They know the dogs. 
Judi says Pearl, the Pittie girl with the blue eyes “is truly a gem!” She’s a year-and-a-half old, weighs only 38 pounds and came in on the 13th as an un-spayed stray. “She looks sweet and she is sweet. She met me in the kennel with tail wags. She stayed close to the point that it was hard to get far enough away from her to get a good picture. … One time she stood on me wanting to give me kisses but other than that she didn’t jump on me. And she’s very generous with kisses! She comes to you when you call her and puts her head on your lap. She loves to have her ears scratched. Because she’s so gentle she would probably do very well with children.” She’s #48210302.
Bindi is this tricolored dog who may be a Border Collie mix. Came in as a stray on July 11. She’s about six months old, weighs 42 pounds and — yep! — isn’t spayed. Judi writes, “I can’t understand why her owners have not come looking for her. She’s on the timid side, but she is friendly and VERY affectionate. She comes to you when you call her and puts her head on your lap. She likes to be stroked. She’s extremely soft. She’s well mannered. She sits for treats but is not highly motivated by them. … My pictures do not do her justice as she’s even more stunning in real life!” She’s #481921367.
That brings us to Rocky, a 3-1/2-year-old copper and white, 52-pound not-neutered stray who arrived in a “malnourished” state.
 Judi writes that “he appears to have forgiven the person or persons that let him get in this condition. He’s extremely sweet, gentle, and friendly. He doesn’t appear to have a problem trusting. He stays close wanting extra attention. He comes to you when you call him and likes having his ears scratched. When he looks at you with those pleading eyes your heart just melts. At least mine did! He sits for treats but right now because he’s so famished he does not take them gently. … I suspect once he is filled out and healthier he will have more energy. He walks well on a leash. … He’s just a sweetheart and he deserves better than the life he’s apparently had.” He’s #48219598.
Use the ID numbers when you call the shelter at 972-216–6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.
MEANWHILE, IN EAST TEXAS
C-AN KEEPS HUSTLING
In the wonderfully treed and pastured areas of East Texas there are animals who do not have homes. Some of them wind up in shelters, some of them wind up in the “must help now” territory covered by Gail Whelan and Companion-Animal Network. Today’s new C-AN project is this boy Otis. Gail writes that he’s an “adorable 6-months-old Rottie boy. The woman who found him has had him vetted, but he needs a place to go.”

And Gail included the good-hearted woman’s explanation of Otis. He was, she wrote, “dumped near our home last week. The local rescues here in Paris are overflowing and I am trying to find a spot somewhere for this sweet boy to land and find a forever home. We are keeping him in a horse stall at this time and we went ahead and had him neutered and fully vetted.”
Here are the contact points: marybgimbel@gmail.com or 903-272-6194. Or reach Gail at 903-367-3226 or at can.adoptions@yahoo.com.
You may want to help Gail, also, with placing handsome Elwood, the 6-month-old Lab/ Hound mix found dumped near Quitman. 
Or you can reach her to help with handsome Thanos, the 2-year-old registered German Shepherd Dog, being given up because his humans are moving into an apartment.
[LARRY ASIDE: Adopt Thanos and you'll have the joy of changing his name from that of a Marvel Comics villain!]

CONTEMPLATIONS

SPACE AND OTHER PLACES…
That’s my adviser The Senator as he and I talked before lift-off Tuesday morning — by lift off I mean I had to lift him off my laptop so he could turn around and watch the Bezos launch. Space shots remind The Senator of his assorted Congressional cat fights to get funding for orbital missions. John Glen was the only politician he managed to get sent into orbit — he has a long list other others he’d like to send to Mars…
Let’s not forget, by the way, to celebrate the first (known) step of man on the moon, Neil Armstrong at 9:30 p.m. Texas Time on Sunday, July 20, 1969. On May 26, 1961, President Kennedy told a joint session of Congress that the USA was going to put a man on the moon by the end of the decade. In 2021, you get the feeling that a “joint session of Congress” might not mean what it did in ’61.
… You think 1969 was a big year in the universe? Texas adopted Daylight Saving Time in 1970. That had more lasting influence than landing on the Moon. A moon-landing never influenced Americans to adjust their carefully trained dog’s “business habits” twice a year. Do you think there’ll come a time when someone advertises “Honeymoon on the Dark Side of the Moon” or “When on the Lunar Surface, Get a Rocket Refill at Buc-ee’s” or “Don’t gamble on Earth; Bet on the Moon and Stars: WinMoon, the Largest Casino in the Universe.” Yep, Monetize the Milky Way.
—- Cite space deals or moon the planet by clicking on ‘comment’ or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put Orbitious Circles in the subject line. —-

FROM FLOOFIES TO DUMPED TO BONDED TO THE EDGE OF SPACE AND CHILI...

EDITION OF MONDAY/TUESDAY JULY 19-20, 2021 [PetPowellPress] Whoa, as the pandemic ebbs or un-ebbs, animal shelters continue to face population challenges. Please read on and see if you can help. Or if you know someone who can help by giving an animal a home.
THREE LITTLE DOGS NEEDING

CAREFUL FOSTERING AND LOVE
These three dogs came into the Lancaster Animal Shelter last week and now they’re rescue-available to help them get over their “stray/dumped” experiences. That’s the word from 4-Legged Helpers, the non-profit that works to get more eyes on the animals in small shelters.
The email subject line — thank you note writer/Helper Leighann Hayden — read “3 OF THE CUTEST FLOOFIES EVER.” And you see that’s true. They’re all “rescue only,” we’re told by the Helpers’ Laura Macias. They’re available on Tuesday.
 Kasey (the black and white boy in his kennel) and Kadie, the brown perky dog, were “found running out and about together and were extremely difficult ot catch. Seen by several people several days in a row, but no one knows where they came from. They appear to have been out for a while, or perhaps were just not treated well by someone — poor little things.”

Kasey “may be a Shih-Poo,” his bio says. “He is not able to be picked up or really petted yet, but at least is better than when he came in last week. He will wag his little tail now and come up to the kennel to sniff your hand — will take treats from your hand, but won’t walk [to you[ unless you have a treat….very fearful poor little cutie pie.”

Tiny Kadie, with some fur loss, may be a Yorkie-Chihuahua. She’s advanced a little, her bio says. “Will now let you pick her up and carry her around. Still timid but doing much better than when she came in …this itty bitty thing was growling. Thank goodness that has all stopped now. Would be good for her to be fostered and get her fur looked at by a vet.”
And that brings us to the beautiful Perrie, a little white/cream girl who’ll be available on Wednesday. She may be a “Westie mixed with Long-haired Chihuahua.” Perrie is “spayed but not chipped” and she’ll “let you touch and pet her and will let you put a leash on and walk her,” the bio reads. There’s a caution: “She will not yet allow anyone to carry or pick her up and will start growling and the shelter [staff said] they are careful to make no sudden movements, so she also needs foster home that can work with her. She will happy wag her tail now when she sees you.”
What makes Perrie’s case a little different? “She was found with a kennel, but she was not in the kennel and she had to be captured….The shelter thought perhaps someone had been trying to catch her and had left the kennel.”
Whatever the cases on the history of these three “cutest little Floofies ever,” here’s how to contact 4-Legged Helpers: Call or text 972-897-4928 or 214-906-7680 or email leighannmc@att.net or fourleggedfosters@yahoo.com.
THE FORT WORTH SHELTER’S
PREDICAMENT AND SUPPORT
We checked in on Fort Worth Animal Care & Control’s Facebook page Monday and found this weekend note from the shelter, which, as you may recall, has been dreadfully, dangerously overloaded in recent times. The note to FWACC supporters read: “THANK YOU for all your efforts in helping get these amazing pets out of the shelter - since Friday, 229 pets left the shelter! We still have dogs in temporary kennels so the work isn't over just yet. Will you stick with us?”

We hope these two dogs were among the animals helped. [LARRY UPDATE: In late mid-afternoon we learned that these two are still available to be helped at FWAC. So, keep reading and somebody open up a couple of spots in a rescue group or a darned good home for two buddies!]
They need someone sticking with them! Bless FWACC for its hard work.
 Along about the same time the shelter was issuing that ‘thank you’ we opened an email Donna Bradshaw had forwarded from veteran rescuer/advocate Jennifer Sellers. 
Our hope is Bingo and Zane have found some happy relief from their shelter situation. Bingo (#47532438) is a 3-year-old, 74-pound mixed-breed who is “thoroughly bonded” with Zane (#47532418), a 6-year-old, 147-pound German Shepherd. Bingo is heartworm positive, Zane is negative.
Why have they been in the shelter since April 13? The owner turned them over because he was “moving.”
 Yep, basically put them onto a short clock ticking toward a fatal fate.
A shelter staffer reported that taking them out into the yard for exercise was a revelation. “I fell in love!! Bingo is a big baby. When I had him on a leash, he leaned on me the entire time. Zane the GSD is huge. He could definitely lose some weight but he is so playful outside and tries to engage in play with Bingo. He can be intimidating in his kennel and with new people so breed experience would be best. Notes say he doesn’t like to be restrained but I had no issues leashing and unleashing him when a kennel tech was with me. I really worry about these two. "
They should be the “only dogs” in a home, the shelter suggests. And, the shelter says, “They must be adopted or rescued together.”
[LARRY ASIDE: I hope that’s already been done. Someone let me know at dallrp@aol.com.]
 To tag or adopt, email fwacctag@fortworthtexas.gov. No phone calls.
KING, IN A SHELTER SINCE 5/26,
WAITING FOR A NEW HUMAN
We got the tip on this handsome fellow from Judi Brown, the volunteer dog biographer at Mesquite Animal Services. And it’s a story of a dog on a path to either true love or true danger. Judi writes, “Even though King has been at the shelter since 5/26 he is still hopeful and will greet you with tail wags and a big grin. I think he’s absolutely adorable! He’s got the most beautiful brown eyes that are captivating! He is a 2 1/2 year-old, 51-pound black and white ‘terrier pit.’  He came to the shelter having been seized by the police. My understanding is that he was being kept in a medium-size kennel with two other dogs. A year previous to this he had been surrendered to our shelter by a granddaughter saying that King did not get along with her grandfather’s dog. 
...For this reason further dog testing is suggested. However he must’ve gotten along with the dogs that he was kenneled with for that period of time! He is extremely friendly and lovable. He seems to be just begging you to love and adopt him. He stays close and sits on your lap. He sits for treats. He’s gentle. He’s obviously very hopeful in that he’s been here so long and still has maintained a phenomenal attitude! … Please, please don’t make him wait another day for a loving home. Our shelter is full and he has been there longer than most. And I can’t figure out why. “ He’s #45585317 — use that ID when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.

And there’s Howie (#47870131), a year-old, 70-pound mixed breed — possibly Cattle Dog, Judi says. He’s a gentle fellow — now. She writes, “If you’re looking for a handsome bigger dog to love you, then look no further. Come to the Mesquite Animal Shelter and meet Howie!” 
She thinks his initial “uneasy in the shelter” attitude didn’t work on his behalf. “it took him a while to build trust, she writes. “Since he has been at the shelter so long and the shelter is overflowing, it is imperative that he receive a tag or get adopted ASAP!!! Howie is a favorite of mine. He gets so excited when he sees me he can hardly contain himself. Several of the kennel techs have told me that he’s one of their favorites, also, especially because he has made so much progress in becoming such a loving, faithful, trusting dog! … He sits for treats and is highly motivated by them. He takes them gently. When I sit down he comes and puts his head on my lap." Use his ID # 47870131 when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.
Also waiting in the shelter is this guy Ben — he came in as a stray on June 14. Judi writes that 8-year-old, 57 pound Ben “doesn’t let his age bother him. In fact he gets around quite well for his age. … He is not fixed. Unfortunately the shelter is overcrowded and he has been at the shelter waiting patiently too long. That means he’s urgent and needs a rescue ASAP.  Ben is a sweet, well mannered, easy-going, friendly boy that isn’t asking much. He just wants a loving home with a lap and air conditioning. Yes, he likes the AC! After exploring the yard and doing his business he stands by the door letting you know he wants to go inside. He has lost hair down the middle of his back and has received a Nexgard tablet. …. His eyes get weepy with sometimes a slight discharge. He isn’t the prettiest dog at the shelter but he is one of the gentlest, sweetest dogs at the Mesquite Animal Shelter! … If you’re looking for a good dog to hang out with and a loyal companion then come meet Ben. Use his ID #47991564 when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283.
CONTEMPLATIONS
SPACE, CIRCULATION & CHILI
LARRY’S PERSONAL NOTE TO WALLY FUNK: I don’t know you, but I love you. Enjoy every minute of that ride on the Blue Origin rocket. Show the world how to enjoy the launch. And keep smiling throughout this entire experience. Some of us ol’ guys who appreciate the challenges and triumphs of women (and expect the pattern of victory to continue with our wise-acre, determined granddaughters) -- heck, some of us may actually tear up a bit when you finally get that trip to space so many Baby Boomers dreamed of when we were kids. (Read about Wally's career HERE.) ...
CIRCULATION? I worked in newspaper newsrooms for decades and always was aware of efforts to increase the numbers of readers, so when I got an email with the subject line “Circulation Boost” my ol’ newshound muscles reacted. Then I read the opening sentence, “These 8 red foods increase circulation” and I could not remember ever having seen any red foods served in The Dallas Morning News Cafeteria. Second-flood of the old building, pretty good coffee, and, for a while in the '70s, great enchiladas and chili.
WHAT ABOUT THAT CHILI? The chili wasn’t Dallas News columnist/chili expert Frank X. Tolbert’s famous Bowl of Red -- the name of his book about the traditional Texas dish. Tolbert's legend and chili live on in the restaurant Tolbert's in Grapevine. And, of course, in the hearts of his ol' colleagues and fans of his at The DMN where he wrote Tolbert's Texas for all to read.
The cafeteria’s product was more of a “Bowl of Brown With Cheese & Onions.” I was a carnivore in those mid-70s days. You could get some challenging indigestion on deadline. Ah, those were the days. Learned to keep antacids handy.
—- Offer vegetarian chili recipes or absolution for carnivorous dining in my youth by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put “eat a salad” in the subject line. —-

SHADOW AND THE SENATOR; NAPPING CATS NAPPING, MAYBE

Welcome, Dear Readers, to another edition of our long-running weekend feature, Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. 
We have an extraordinary report for this edition, a letter from a young woman from the Los Angeles area about her napping cat. Here is what she wrote:

Dear Mr. Powell,
My name is Aurora Dawn. Please call me Rory. I am a longtime reader of your stories about sleeping dogs and napping cats. 
I am a really big fan of cats. I have a cat. His name is Shadow.
This photograph is as close as I have been able to get for taking a picture of my cat. He is very fast. Even when he is napping he can tell if I am holding my telephone on “camera.” And he runs and hides. 
My father, who is a movie star and asked me not to mention his name, has a theory about Shadow being skittish. He says it is because when Shadow was a little bitty kitty he was scared by a Chihuahuarazzi. Dad says that is a small but determined dog who works as an uncover celebrity photographer for the National Spotlight Snooper Facebook page in Hollywood. We think Shadow used to live in Hollywood before we adopted him. 
He lost his wallet somewhere and we can’t check out any of the details of his life. As my father says, “Only the Shadow knows.”
I hope you can see the outline of one of his perky ears in the shadow on our couch. I will keep trying to get his picture. FYI: July 22 is Ratcatcher’s Day, in honor of the Pied Piper of Hamelin. But Shadow swears he has never caught a rodent of any kind. He told me, “I avoid politics.”
Sincerely xxx000xxx,

Rory and Shadow

***


Dear Readers, our primary politically-sensitive cat, my personal friend, The Senator, asked if he could respond to Rory. That is The Senator laboring over the keyboard as I watched and gave sensitive but important writing tips. Here’s his note:
Dear Rory,
Thank you for your letter about Shadow.
I am The Senator, the personal counselor and confidant to the nitwit gentleman who writes these stories of cats and dogs. I believe Shadow may be in need of counseling, vis a vis relationships with humans and the relatively young art of photography. I have, as you may suspect, been photographed many, many times in situations that are key to peace and tranquility in the world.
 Please have Shadow get in touch with me and I will help him understand that it is OK for a cat to have his photo made when he is napping. Why? Because it enhances the image of cats everywhere by helping people realize we are not always knocking things off shelves, looking for a fresh litter box or demanding equal time on cable and broadcast TV and radio stations — websites may be next.
In order to demonstrate that a napping cat may be photographed in any situation as long as it is calming to the general public and does not incite international conflicts, I have included a photograph snapped in the United Kingdom a few years back when I was invited to meet Queen Elizabeth’s Corgis. We all had a good time that day — got to chatting with the Queen about children and such and lost track of time. I nearly missed my flight on the Concorde from Heathrow back to DFW International. Hardly enough time on that flight or a catnap, as I recall.

Remember, Rory, always do something good for people and animals when you have the opportunity. Just last week it was announced that because of my scheduling conflict I’d given up my $30-million seat on Jeff Bezo’s Blue Origin space flight Tuesday to a young student.
I’ll catch a ride on Branson’s next mission. He and I go way back.
Hug Shadow on my behalf. Register to vote as soon as you can. 

With purrfully warm heartfelt respect and appreciation because I know I can count on you in November, your friend,
The Senator
[LARRY NOTE: Please send actual photos of your slumbering critters (any kind!) to dallrp@aol.com and we’ll feature them in our weekend’s Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap even if they are reptiles, birds or in-laws. You’ll be promoting adoptions of animals and encouraging insomniacs to lie awake wondering what prompted the writing of this week’s edition.]
--- Offer sleeping tips or opinions of the Concorde by clicking on 'comment' below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put 'Reality Show' in the subject line. ---

A CAVALCADE OF CRITTERS NEEDING HUMAN HEARTS TO HELP THEM AS WE REACH A CROWDED WEEKEND

EDITION OF FRIDAY, JULY 16, 2021 [PetPowellPress] On Friday, I’m convinced that things will become clearer to us all. Clearer than what, I do not know. Here are some stories, followed by some Contemplations, followed by a chance to get some magic beans. That joke makes no sense if your path to literacy and reading for entertainment did not include Jack and The Beanstalk. That’s my dog Porche Noel — she also has never read Jack and The Beanstalk. She’s in the middle of re-reading Jonathan Livingston Seagull. Hippie dog.
AND THE FORT WORTH DOG
IS TAGGED BY A RESCUE
We posted the photo of #A48187406 in Fort Worth Animal Care & Control on Thursday and this morning we got a great note: “Epic Animal Rescue tagged her this morning!!,” wrote our reliable contact Ginger Leach, the Rescue Coordinator at the Fort Worth/Chuck Silcox Animal Care and Adoption Center. 
As you may recall, this dog was hit by a car and a witness to the ugly event picked up the dog and took her to FWACC — they made sure she was comfortable, her broken leg was tended to and word went out that she needed help.
Epic Animal Rescue is online at epicanimalrescue.org -- we're hoping to get an update on the dog's progress -- and on Facebook HERE,
Credit for this rescue clearly starts with that Good Samaritan on July 10 and is shared by FWACC, our Houston pal and rescue tipster Alexandra Kelsey, our Dallas pal and rescue/foster seeker Mary Sullivan and many others with email lists and a desire to help a dog in need.
ONE MORE FORT WORTH NOTE: Earlier this week we saw a post by Kristen Barg Morrison about the need to save lives in the crowded shelter by emptying cages via rescue and adoption — any method that doesn’t involve needles. She’s the “Lead volunteer/foster at Fort Worth Animal Care and Control.”

A few nights ago, she saw “8 large dogs being surrendered.” And she was told that the shelter is, for the first time in two years, on the brink of euthanizing for space “unless we can get a significant amount of medium/large dogs out of the shelter.” There are more than 900 dogs currently in the care of the shelter, her post said.

The shelter isn’t just holding a bunch of big ol’ dawgs nobody wants. Kristen posted a note about a dog family arriving at precisely the wrong time earlier this week in the “Summer of Overloaded Shelters.” 
She wrote that this Mom and her five 6-week-old female puppies (still nursing) were “dumped at a shelter that’s at 140% capacity and about to euthanize for space.” Mom is Gitchie (A48221365), a year old, 41 pounds. 
To ask about helping these dogs or any animal in the Fort Worth shelter’semail fwacctag@fortworthtexas.gov.
Here is the LINK TO SEE THE FORT WORTH ANIMALS — DOGS AND CATS.
THE TYPES OF DOGS
THAT WIND UP HOMELESS
Can this be the recognition of a “New Breed of Dogs”? Keep reading…
In Thursday’s afternoon edition we cited the case of a purebred, papers-carrying German Shepherd named Thanos who is losing his home because the family is moving into an apartment. (Scroll down to yesterday’s edition to read about Thanos.) A short time after we published that appeal from Gail Whelan of Companion-Animal Network, she sent another story of a dog she was suddenly dealing with in her constant rescue life.

This time she’s trying to find a home for Elwood, this 6-month old Lab-mix fellow. Gail says he was found after being abandoned near Quitman, about an hour and 45 minutes east of Dallas.
Keep up with these two dogs and other CAN rescues by monitoring www.ca-n.petfinder.com. Ask about helping Gail with these dogs by calling 903-967-3226 or email can.adoptions@yahoo.com. 

And Gail came up with an idea that may be more “promotional” for a dog than the label “Black Lab/hound mix.” 
Gail wrote, “What if we made a new breed --- ‘Tuxedo Lab’? God knows there are plenty of them.  Sound good?” 
[LARRY RESPONSE: Sounds great to me. Look at the happy face on that guy Elwood. Clearly he’s proudly dressed for a high society party, a wedding or a Winners Banquet at Westminster where a happy countenance is appreciated by all. We noted in our earlier edition that the German Shepherd has a comic book villain name, Thanos. Ah, but Elwood — he’s clearly got the name of the lead human character in the movie Harvey, featuring the 6-31/2-tall invisible white rabbit Harvey whose human friend (Jimmy Stewart in the film) is Elwood P. Dowd, a gentle soul.]
HEMINGWAY AND HANK,
TWO DOGS STILL WAITING
We mentioned these boys earlier in the week — they’re in the “loop” of “needs helped dogs” that belongs to 4-Legged Helpers.
Hemingway lost his home because of the illness of his human. The handsome boy is a year old, neutered, up to date on shots and is a Lab Mix. He’s the dog who knows some obedience commands “including how ot crate himself if you tell him to do so.”

Hank is the young Terrier Mix who is “awesome,” his bio reads. “Sits and shakes on command…Really just an all-around adorable dog. … Fixed, fully vaccinated and microchipped.”
To ask about these dogs, call or text 4-Legged Helpers at 214-949-2726 or EMAIL cat_girl_71@yahoo.com. Go to the 4-Legged Helpers Inc. Facebook page to see more animals in need of homes and help.
ON FRIDAY WE CITE FRIDAY
AMONG MESQUITE’S ANIMALS

Our pal Judi Brown, veteran volunteer dog biographer at Mesquite Animal Services, tipped us to this girl Friday, #45313440 in the shelter. She was “surrendered to the Mesquite shelter on 7/12 due to financial reasons," 
Judi writes, and adds, "The Shelter has her listed as a mixed breed and my pet scanner said she’s part Louisiana Catahoula, Border Collie and ‘terrier pit.’ Besides being a very attractive girl with pretty brown eyes and beautiful brindle coloring she also has a lot to offer. She is very alert and curious about her environment. Unfortunately for me when I was trying to take pictures of her there was a lot of activity going on beyond the shelter yard and she didn’t want to miss any of it! So she kept looking through the gate and looking over the fence. When she wasn’t distracted, she stayed close. She answered to her name. She came and sat next to me. She’s a little on the timid side. She likes treats but doesn’t know how to sit for them. This is something you could teach her because it’s obvious she wants to please. She wasn’t interested in playing with any of the toys. When I walked her through the bay she was intimidated by the other dogs and didn’t want anything to do with them. Friday weighs 55 pounds. Bonus: she is already spayed.” Use her ID number 45313440 when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com. Same process for all these dogs — use their # when you call or email.
Judi also spent some time with this fantastic Alaskan husky, Ivan. (That’s some tail, Ivan!). He came in as a stray on the 9th, Judi says, “When I first met him in his kennel and at the window he was howling. It appears he howls for attention. He continued to howl for a while once he got out into the yard. He kept going to the gate and I felt like he was looking for his previous owners. Being a Husky he exhibited the typical traits of checking out the perimeter of the yard in an attempt to get out. There is no doubt he will need a very secure fence. He did his business as soon as he got out into the yard. He walked well on a leash. He was not interested in meeting the other dogs in the bay. He was very active and moved around the yard quite a bit. He needed a good brushing. Up to this point he didn’t appear to have been socialized and we were not making a connection. However, once I started brushing him he settled down. At this point we made a connection.” He’s 41 pounds, fixed and his shelter ID is 48177556. Use that number when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.
And volunteer dog biographer Debra Chisholm sent us the note about this girl Ellie, a “sweet,” 60-pound, 3-year-old, un-spayed American Pittie/Staffie mix who came in as a stray on the 7th. She may be house-trained. And, Debra wrote, “She is a bit timid and shy, especially in her kennel, but does warm up. She was friendly and affectionate and wanted to climb in my lap and give kisses. She is a calm and gentle girl, yet frisky and spunky.” She’s #48163936. 
 This handsome mixed breed (Earhound!) is Apollo. Debra says he arrived on the 5th as a stray with two other dogs. Apollo (#48155333) is about 2, not neutered and weighs 64 pounds. Needs leash training. “He is timid, shy and nervous. He did seem to enjoy being loved on and having attention paid to him,” Debra wrote and added, “I do wonder how much socialization he has had with humans. This well-mannered fellow likes treats and takes them gently. He is a work in progress. … I found myself drawn to this boy and I feel that he will blossom and warm up with just the right people and home situation.” 

Judi also got to meet Winston, who came into the shelter “as a stray on 7/6 with 2 other dogs that are listed as great Pyrenees. He's extremely photogenic and would be even prettier if I’d had time to groom him. He’s listed as a Great Pyrenees, but he’s definitely not a white Pyrenees as he is cream-colored. My pet scanner said he is 40% Golden Retriever. His long nose makes him even more distinguished and handsome. He’s very happy, friendly, and loving. He sometimes gets over excited and tries to jump on you but he does obey with a sharp command to get down! When I sat down he tried to climb on me with all 60 pounds! At the end of the photo shoot I even got kisses!  He sits for treats and takes them gently. He chases toys and will shake them but doesn’t bring them back. … He tried to make friends with several dogs and ignored the ones in the bay that were barking at him. This beautiful, attractive, loving dog will probably be adopted quickly.” He needs neutering. His ID is #481555353.

See more Mesquite animals HERE. That nameless cat, #48072400, is among the adults in the feline area — there are many, many kittens, fyi. But this girl, who came in on June 24, looks as if she might have been working undercover, trying to break-up the famed “O’Possum Gang” that roams North Texas. [LARRY ASIDE: I made that gang up. Please, lovely possums, do not sic your lawyers on me in some kind of Not A Possum Defamation Lawsuit. It was a possum gag. So to speak.]
CONTEMPLATIONS
THE BED, THE FILM, THE PHILOSOPHER….
Do you have a dog in the bed each night? A cat? Both? Do you dream of the stars or do you have dreams of being caught at Neiman-Marcus without a valid credit card? Do you dream of driving a 1963 Plymouth Belvedere with a pushbutton transmission and fins that would make a shark envious? When you look at dark clouds, do you wonder if poets see them differently, beyond the threat of rain and high winds? And that concludes our test over the Department of Stray Thoughts Report titled Tendencies in One Nation on the Third Planet. …
Two funny films? Each in its own way. Death at a Funeral (British, 2007); Death at a Funeral (American, 2010). Both have crude scenes that make a mannerly viewer grimace, but each has comedy that a person with my undignified standards can enjoy. I like the Brit version a tad better. Great work in it by the American actor Alan Tudyk, a product of Plano Senior High School and a star in pages of listings on IMDB. He is, most wonderfully, the star in the title role of SyFy Channel’s series Resident Alien. The funniest space alien since Mork from Ork. Only a darker soul. And no connecting point with Fonzie. (That’ll challenge you trivia players to make a connection.) …
Clearly the first two contemplations have established my intellectual depth, so, having emptied myself of anything remotely funny in the 21st Century, I will figuratively thumb through some old newspapers and land on a Nov. 1, 1932, column by the great Will Rogers. Wish I’d written it, but it was The Cowboy Philosopher who wrote, “This country has gotten where it is in spite of politics, not by the aid of it. That we have carried as much political bunk as we have and still survived shows we are a super nation.”
—- Offer answers or questions by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put “Vote Yes or No!” in the subject line. —-

A FORT WORTH DOG IN A FIX; AN EAST TEXAS DOG IN A FIX; SPEAKING OF FIXES, CONSIDER A SQUIRREL REBELLION

EDITION OF THURSDAY, JULY 15, 2021 [PetPowellPress] We begin this edition with a challenge. Write a second sentence? Oh, no, that’s always a snap. The third and fourth can get to be iffy. But in this case, we’ll just note that we’ve got a story of a dog in whom interest has been growing. Read on:
WORD GETS AROUND
THAT A DOG NEEDS HELP
Now and then, readlarrypowell.com is astounded at the “reach” of animal rescue people — this one appears to stretch from landlocked Fort Worth to the West Coast.
 Look at that face. And, yes, I hope by the time you are reading this, she has been helped/rescued and on her way to a complete repair for that broken front leg. But that is some sweet face, isn’t it. 
[LARRY ASIDE: It’s a face that needs to be held in the hands of a loving human who will lean over and kiss that forehead and tell this baby that she is loved and things are going to be OK.]
This dog’s story began somewhere in Fort Worth — she either “escaped” confinement or was dumped but whichever it was, she wound up in the path of a car.

[LARRY ASIDE: Bless the Good Samaritan who saw her get hit by the car and brought her to the shelter for help. Bless the Fort Worth Animal Care & Control people for sheltering her in this tough time.]

Emails about her came from our Houston tipster Alexandra Kelsey, the Dallas advocate/rescuer Mary Sullivan (who has been hustling to find a foster for the dog) and from Los Angeles photojournalist Tish Lambert. 
As we piece things together from the assorted notes, the dog (#A48187406) arrived on July 10. She is around a year old, weighs 43 pounds, isn’t spayed, but is heartworm negative. 
Our longtime reliable FW source Ginger Leach, the Fort Worth/Chuck Silcox Animal Care and Adoption Center Rescue Coordinator, says the adorable girl is still quietly waiting in the shelter and that, yes, she’ll need to get that leg repaired. The shelter report is she has been “really sweet” and was “a little nervous” and “attempted to get up,” but was encouraged to just take it easy and rest.
To ask about being this dog’s foster, email mary.Sullivan@mcpaulaw.com.
To ask about being the dog’s “rescue” via the shelter, email fwacctag@fortworthtexas.gov.
[LARRY ASIDE: We’ll try to fill in the unknowns on the rest of this dog’s life. And if you rescue group steps up to help her, let us know by emailing dallrp@aol.com. You’ll probably need donations to help pay for her vet work.]
A GERMAN SHEPHERD
IN NEED OF A HOME
We got the tip on the latest CAN Adoptions “project” from our pal Karen Lee of barkleyworld.com. She forwarded the appeal from Gail Whelen of Companion-Animal Network. And Gail, as we all know, keeps on keepin’ on when it comes to saving animals. We’ll get to the dog’s name in a minute.
 This handsome fellow — how’s that garden picture for a relaxed dog photo — is a 2-year-old purebred German Shepherd Dog (GSD, as the folks in the know refer to the breed).
Two important things: He’s “fully vetted” and “he needs a home.”
Current on shots and heartworm preventative, he is a “very good-natured” boy who, Gail writes, “could use some obedience training as they never had time for him.” He was raised with kids — living most recently with a 4-year-old and a 10-year-old.
 Here’s the back story: The people “paid for a purebred Shepherd.  Now moving to an apartment and getting rid of him.” He comes “with his papers,” Gail says. [LARRY ASIDE: My comments wisely, kindly redacted.] 
To ask about helping Gail help this dog, call Gail at 903-967-3226 or email can.adoptions@yahoo.com. The dog is in the D/FW area.
[LARRY’S INFO ABOUT THE DOG’S NAME: Gail says his people named him Thanos. I figured it was some Greek god, but I looked it up and discovered this explanation on Wikipedia: “An Eternal–Deviant warlord from the moon Titan, Thanos is regarded as one of the most powerful beings in the Marvel Universe." Lousy name for a dog even if it is from a “comic book.” This dog needs a name that shows strength and kindness, maybe wisdom and devotion. I’d name him “Sweet Texas Sugar” but I long-ago ran out of dog and cat names. I hope the person who adopts him will let us know what warm-hearted name he is given.]
THE SUPPLIES NECESSARY
FOR SUCCESS AT THE LAKE…
What does it take to operate the world’s most successful spay/neuter clinic at Gun Barrel City, Texas? We got some answers from Sydney Busch, the determined spokesperson for the Friends of the Animals at Cedar Creek Lake, the organization that, indeed, operates that celebrated clinic.

 In her latest note, she wrote, “The need never ends - the spay/neuter clinic can use the following: toilet paper, paper towels, case of drinking water, case of soft drinks, bleach, hydrogen peroxide.” 
These supplies, Sydney says, can be brought to the clinic (122 Old Gun Barrel Lane in — where else? — Gun Barrel City between 6 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Tuesdays (that’s spay/neuter day) or “left at Flair Printing across from the DQ in GBC [translating for non-Texans: Dairy Queen in Gun Barrel City] on “other days of the work week.” If you’re dropping off at Flair Printing, let Sydney know so she can pick up the supplies: Email sydney@friendsoftheanimals.org, text or call 214-808-4701. 
[LARRY ASIDE: This note gives me the opportunity to re-post one of my favorite photos from the long-time work of the Friends of the Animals Spay/Neuter Clinic. This was years ago and they called these small ones in the post-op recover room, “The Burritos.” Remember, no matter what is going on in the Texas Legislature, you can still spay and neuter dogs and cats in all 254 Texas counties -- Dallas, Tarrant and the rest.]
CONTEMPLATIONS
SHORT TAKES: Spotlight, Snoozers & Squirrels
Is Texas experiencing an outbreak of national attention that doesn’t involve a football team? Thank you, Texas Legislature. …

 That’s a photo of Porche Noel and the office cat William Powell in a happy snooze session in the bedroom. William’s awake; Porche snores like a locomotive. Now awake, Porche asks that you view the photo as a reminder to send photographs/bios of your slumbering dogs and cats and critters to dallrp@aol.com for publication in our world-wide-read weekend edition Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. With intense and immense gratitude, Larry “Fan of Critters” Powell. If you don’t have a napping cat, adopt one today. If you don’t have a sleeping dog, adopt one today. If you have one of each, adopt two more. It’s for the good of the nation — a demonstration of love and kindness…
OK, that’s enough small talk. To anyone writing a book today, bless your brains and your typing. Stop looking for reasons to stand up and walk away from your keyboard. Hang on, I need a cup of coffee before I write this scene for The Dramatic Rebellion of the Telepathic Tree Squirrels. It’s a political novel. I’m kidding. I used up all my creativity in that title.
— Offer excuses or advice by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put “Never mind the alphabet, pick better Lotto Texas numbers” in the subject line. —

DOGS, CATS, MYTHS, MYSTERIES AND CONTEMPLATIONS OF ODD REPORTS

EDITION OF WEDNESDAY/THURSDAY JULY 14-15, 2021 [PetPowellPress] Welcome to our midweek/next day edition. If I had the gumption and the drive, I’d be cleaning out my email today by the thousands. But, we have more important things to do.
Mowing, finishing this edition, contemplating the twisted nature of humanity — wait. Not that third one — not enough time. Here we go with our primary mission: Help people save ‘em all.
A CHANCE TO LOVE
A BEAUTIFUL CAT
Holy smoke, look at this fantastic feline! She is Darcy. And, surprisingly, her promoter, Leighann Hayden, sent us a followup on a note she sent earlier in the week. You’d think this cat would have been snapped up after the first note, but noooo. 
The new note’s subject line reads, “Still no takers. Please. Won’t someone help this beautiful long haired sweetie pie? TX. DFW.”

Darcy, about a year old, is, as you can see, a long-haired girl. She’s either a Maine Coon or a Norwegian Forest Cat Mix. “Stunning,” Leighanne wrote. 
She’s had all her vet work done except for spaying.
Her bio describes her as “Sweetest kitty ever.” [LARRY ASIDE: I think that’s probably a tie with about 10 billion other cats on the planet. One of our’s, Esme, is a close second, but she’s partial to my sweetspouse Martha so I enviously count off in the judging.] Darcy has lived in a foster home for the past two weeks and, Leighann’s note says, “She is awesome. Her foster says she is absolutely wonderful with her small children and even her other kitty. Adores be petted.”
To ask about adopting Darcy, get in touch with 4-Legged helpers by calling for texting 214-906-7680 or email lhayden4652@gmail.com or call or text 972-897-4926.
READY-TO-PLAY RILEY &
OTHER MESQUITE ADORABLES
Is Mesquite’s Animal Shelter a magnet for adorable dogs? They may have something in common that suggests why they “strayed.”

Look at Riley, a Siberian Husky mix who came in on July 8 as — get this — a STRAY!!! Who would let Mr. Handsome stray? Anyway, Riley, about 3, isn’t neutered — TIME OUT! Stray? Is that the right? How about “lookin’ for a date” and not an actual stray? Irresponsible humans. OK, TIME IN: Mesquite volunteer dog biographer Debra Chisholm says the 45-pound boy walks nicely on a leash and didn’t show aggression his walk-through at the shelter. Debra wrote, “Two men who were potential adopters interacted with him in the shelter yard and he was very friendly and affectionate with them.  He gave kisses and wanted to snuggle.  He has an outgoing and confident personality. Riley is playful, friendly and has a sweet nature.  Being a Husky he will need a high secure fence.  This would not be a dog for an apartment.  I heard him howl briefly in his kennel.  Riley needs a person or family who will spend lots of time with him and get some of that energy worked out.” He’s #48175685 — use that ID when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityof mesquite.com . (Same connecting points and ID instructions for the rest of the dogs in this segment.)
Otis (#48148319), a stray who came in on the 5th, weighs 63 pounds, is about 2 and — WE HAVE A WINNER IN THE DON’T CARE DERBY OF HUMANITY —is not neutered. Pulls strongly on his leash, probably house-trained, knows “sit” command and is “treat-motivated.” He also enjoyed splashing in the shelter’s “baby pool.” So, what’s his breed? Debra says her dog scanner app “identified Dogo Argen- tino/Staffordshire Bull Terrier/American Bulldog.” How’s that for a strong family tree for a handsome dog!
 And, now, here we are, 3-for-3 so far with un-neutered fellas who have strayed in Mesquite.
This not-yet-fixed guy is Zeus — he arrived on the 5th. Zeus is about 2 and weighs 70 pounds. He’s active, lively, will jump on a person in a friendly manner — has a charming personality, Debra writes. She says, “He is just so full of life and energy. He very much needs a bath and a good groom.” Zeus is ID48155865.

Debra adds, “The Mesquite shelter has been continually overfull for months now, so rescuing this precious boy would open a kennel.”
DING DING DING We’re 4-for-4 on spaying/neutering with these Mesquite strays. This one is a girl, Sydney, a Lab mix who came in on July 7. She’s about a year old, ways 45 pounds and, Debra wrote, “There is nothing timid or shy about this girl — she has lots of puppy energy and spunk.” Runs, plays, will jump on a human. But, she also likes treats so, there’s a training point. Sydney is 48135152. Remember, use it when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.
See more Mesquite adoptables by clicking on the shelter site HERE.
Not just dogs. Not just kittens. But some grown-up cats, too. This one is Myleaux (#40487934) who came in Wednesday morning, according to the shelter site. Myleaux is a 4year-old, smallish tuxedo boy. His breed is listed as the very rare “Domestic Shorthair/Mix.” I’m kidding about that “rare” business — but not completely: He’s “neutered,” according to his online stats. You can see him in the cat room at the shelter. But use the contact points we listed for the dogs. That’ll work, too.
LANCASTER DOGS WITH
FANTASTIC FACES
Here’s a couple of boys who have yet to find a way out of the city shelter in Lancaster. Put their names together and they sound like they could be starring in a comedy adventure at the movies — Hemingway and Hank. 
Hemingway is in the shelter because, at a year old, his human developed health injuries and had to surrender him. 4-Legged Helpers, trying to help Hemingway survive, says the dog was “much loved, well-socialized and is used to being an indoor dog.” The story on Hemingway is that he “loves, loves, loves other dogs, cats and even chickens, too.” He also likes kids. Likes to fetch tennis balls. Knows obedience commands and “how to crate himself if you tell him to do so.”

That brings us to Hank — we included two photos. Smiling. Not smiling. Hank is healthy, neutered and microchipped. Needs a cat-free home. But he is described as a “well-behaved guy who adores children and other dogs.” He’s house-trained, adorable, healthy. And he “sits and shakes on command and takes treats gently with his mouth.” 
To ask about saving the lives of these two boys, call or text 4-Legged Helpers at 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com.

CONTEMPLATIONS
History, mystery and myth

Jeff Crilley of Real News PR publishes The Rundown, tipping editors and reporters on stories and expert contacts. He also has a history tip-side. For example, for his July 14 edition of The Rundown he posted this note about Billy the Kid’s “alleged” demise on July 14, 1881. Seems like a pretty rock-solid fact and we accept Jeff’s version of the outlaw’s fate -- Jeff's a veteran get-the-facts/old school/reliable journalist. Ah, but there are others who slide off he straight-and-narow. There’s been a controversy since the mid-20th century when there was a claim that O.L. “Brushy Bill” Roberts of Hico, Texas, was really William H. Bonney. (Launched many newspaper, magazine and film stories.) And, if you want another wacky Billy the Kid story (that is absolutely true), there’s the case of which governor of New Mexico Territory revoked his pardon and that led to the fatal shootout with Billy and Sheriff Pat Garrett. That governor was Lew Wallace who also was the author of the 1880 book (inspiration for many films), Ben Hur: A Tale of the Christ. FYI: There are Billy The Kid Museums in both Fort Sumner, N.M., and Hico, about 90 fast minutes southwest of Fort Worth. …
Think it’s wacky that Billy the Kid gets the “myth” treatment in Hico, Texas? Try this one on: There’s a theory that Abraham Lincoln’s assassin, with the help of a conspiracy, fled Washington, traveled to Glen Rose, Texas, and settled in Granbury, also south of Fort Worth, and lived under the name “John St. Helen.” His ghost is said to haunt the Granbury Opera House. Here’s a Granbury LINK. Booth was, most historians agree, killed on the porch of a house on Richard Garrett’s farm in Port Royal, Va. That was in 1865 — no idea if this Garrett was in the family of Sheriff Pat, who was born in 1850 in Chambers County, Alabama — not all that far by airplane from Virginia. Of course, there were no planes that we know of until the Wright Brothers’ flew one at Kitty Hawk, N.C., in 1903. ...

What the two previous segments reveal is that your host at readlarrypowell.com spent more than a quarter-century writing columns for newspapers and some of the odd notes stuck in his head and are now available all over google.com. In honor of the myths of the world, I guess it’s been a while since anybody reported seeing Elvis. Records in Memphis say The King’s death officially occurred on Aug. 16, 1977. After that, of course, there were a bunch of sightings. But, honestly, the last time I saw him was at the Tarrant County Convention Center on June 16, 1994 — let me check that. Hang on. Sorry, that was in 1974. I misread my notes while I was multi-tasking. Had to take a phone call from Ambrose Bierce (old photo, right) who’s now living in Las Colinas and working as a baggage handler at DFW. That's what I heard, anyway. Probably not true. Here’s an Ambrose Bierce explanation.
— Offer true facts or unproven theories of time travel by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put “Dear Off-the-Beam” in the salutation. —-

COUNSELING, A STRAYDOG MOM 'N' LITTER; SAVING DOGS & CATS; CHOCOLATE & SIGNS

EDITION OF TUESDAY/WEDNESDAY JULY 13/14, 2021 [PetPowellPress] This edition is a little bit late — blame me. My mind was wandering and my dogs weren’t up to herding it. They weren’t up at all — sluggards. 
[LARRY NOTE: This photo was snapped at 1:15 p.m. Tuesday as Porche Noel (lower snoozer) and Dudley the Angel nodded off in tandem after an exhausting walk from the living room couch down the hall into the office. They are on Porche’s “Psychedelic Carpet of Contemplation and Joyous Dreams.” They’re really cute when they’re chasing the same squirrel in their conjoined dreams and their paws are running at top speed.]
Look, between you and me, Dear Readers, do you have a cat or dog you like to talk while searching for a good answer for the challenges of the day? It’s free. Nobody has to show an insurance card to a cat. Well, of course, I can’t speak for all cats, but mine, William Powell, geez, he doesn’t demand to see any ID. 

I was talking to my literate office cat William — that’s him on his favorite OTP (Office Thinking Platform) at the hallway door — and, without me asking a question, he mewsed in an avuncular fashion, “You know, Larry, we’re beyond the halfway point of 2021. Isn’t that something? And some of us still can’t get a grip on the fact that George Orwell’s 1984 and Arthur C. Clark’s 2001: A Space Odyssey are outdated. Star Trek? Never out of date.”

William is wise. I have no evidence other than his continued companionship and his investment advice.

So, in honor of the rapidly approaching future, we cite what William thinks may be his next book. Working title is Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders In Space: The First Super Bowl on Mars. Couldn’t peg a date on that game, but our theory is it involves robotic linemen and a ban on ESP for defensive backs — “If you’re going to read, read a receiver’s mind,” the d-back coaches say. The game in this novel is way off in the future — maybe 2096, the 100th anniversary of the last time Dallas was in a Super Bowl, Jan. 28, 1996. Not sure they have Januarys on Mars. Well, back to earth:
THE PUPPYTIME TSUNAMI
ISN’T JUST IN THE CITY
Having lived in Dallas, Grand Prairie, Euless or Fort Worth since 1972, I sometimes think of unexpectedly discovered litters as a “city situation.” Heck, my funspouse Martha once rescued a dog who was flopped over in the doorway of a 7-Eleven. People were walking around this puffy little dog. Martha picks her up, takes her to our vet and discovers that the girl was as pregnant as a dog can get. We fostered the litter and the mom. Found homes for all of them (we had some placement help from Dr. Karen Fling and East Lake Pet Orphanage).
But that was in the big middle of Big D. Consider the challenge illustrated in this artwork provided by Straydog Inc., the legendary sanctuary in the rural area east of Cedar Creek Lake.
The story on this momma and the puppies reads, “Straydog team member Jorge found Flora and her 8 puppies while driving some of our dogs back from the vet. He noticed the mom, Flora, and one of her pups on the road. After calling [shelter manager] Juana [Arnold], he went to look for more puppies. He found 7 more under an abandoned house.”

Straydog needs humans to adopt and adore these animals and it needs donations to cover the price of medical care, shots, and spaying/neutering for nine dogs. Click HERE to see how to help with the bills.
[LARRY ASIDE: And if anyone knows who the puppy-daddy is, arrange to have him neutered, too. Clearly, he’s met is quota on the attempt to populate the world with new puppies.]
ON THE SOUTH SIDE OF DALLAS,
LANCASTER’S FULL OF UNWANTED…
Now, the term “unwanted” is used but what it really means is “unwanted until the right heart spots ‘em.” And, you and I, Dear Readers, may already have scored the legal limit on dogs and cats in our towns, but surely we know someone somewhere who had room for cats and dogs that are in a shelter because their human let them down. 
We cite some because 4-Legged Helpers has a mission of rescuing every darned one of the dogs and cats they encounter in every darned underfunded, under-trafficked, under-publicized, taxpayer financed shelter that exists in the darkness of the human condition known as “ignorance of the facts.”
 Consider those two cats.
The 4-Legged Helpers, working with the Lancaster Animal Shelter’s inventory, report that these appear to be siblings. The orange fellow is young Milo; the gray fellow is young Otis. They are siblings — Tabby boys — who were owner-released. They are a year old. The bio reads, “They are indoor cats and are very dismayed about their predicament of being turned in… and talking to anyone that will listen…” They are accustomed to “sleeping on a bed, not in a cage.” Healthy and up to date on shots. 

That speckled dog? That’s Cece the Heeler, “found out and about on her own and having the best time,” her bio reads.
Her reward? Yep, she’s in the slammer, awaiting the right human to say, “I’ll love this dog forever.” The bio says she’s “an absolute sweetheart and just precious.”

And there are many, many more in the Lancaster shelter. But we’ll finish today’s update with Princess, a young Husky girl who was microchipped. And the bio explains, “Her owner never came for her — which is just heartbreaking because she is a GREAT girl.”
To offer to help by adopting or by rescuing via a 501c3 or some other reliable means, call or text 4-Legged Helpers at 972-897-4928 or 214-906-7680 or email leighannmc@att.net or fourleggedfosters@yahoo.com.
Keep up with the dogs and cats that are in the spotlight of 4-Legged Helpers by going to their Facebook page HERE.
CONTEMPLATIONS
ENERGY, MARS AND 200 FEET…
I’ve had a lack-of-energy moment that’s lasted 24 hours. Not sure why. Could be the tortured ribs I’ve been living with for several days. Could be the Texas Rangers baseball season, even more torturous than the ribs. Chocolate helps — melt it in a saucepan and rub it on your ribcage — I’m kidding, but if that would help, I still couldn’t do it because I believe chocolate should be served only on pastries, in candy bars, on cakes, in pies and, of course, to fat men who have been captured by the joy of milk chocolate their entire lives. …
Earlier in this edition I wondered if Mars and Martians have the month of January. The answer is too complicated for me, but if you want to give it a shot, here’s a link to an explanation of the calendar of Mars. ...

I shot this photo (click on it to make it grow like a government budget) last week while driving in Dallas on Corinth near Riverside in the neighborhood of the legendary Longhorn Ballroom. The sign on the back of the trailer was too small to read as we rolled along, so I pulled up within about 50 feet of the trailer and that’s where I read the message “Stay back 200 feet.” The small line of type under that warning reads, “Not responsible for broken windshields.” I’m not sure the words in the big letters are effective when the trailer isn’t on an interior street. I’ve never seen any cars or trucks separated by 200 feet on a Dallas freeway. I didn’t look at the front of the pulling vehicle but it may have had a sign that read, “STAY AHEAD 200 FEET” and “Not responsible for whiplash.”
—- Offer driving tips or parking tips by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put “STOP ROBOCALLS” in the subject line. —-

MONDAY BRINGS US SPACE, DOGS, CATS AND CHALLENGES OF SAVING 'EM ALL

EDITION OF MONDAY, JULY 12, 2021 [PetPowellPress] Yeah, I watched that livestream of Richard Branson and his Virgin Galactic spaceplane skimming the edge of space. It made me feel young again — like a sixth-grader in a living room in Texarkana in the early ‘60s watching the pre-school TV coverage of a launch of a manned-mission from Cape Canaveral in Florida. Of course, the 2021 Branson flight was a luxury flight compared to squeezing a guy in a space suit into the tight-fit of the "space capsule."
That’s our dog Dudley The Angel, a Border Collie/Chocolate Lab mix, giving us his impression of a Mercury Space Capsule sitting on a living room rug — he’s almost the size and shape of a Mercury capsule. And he’s learning to bark “Light the candle!” though it sounds a lot like, “Need more treats.”
That other dog? That’s Astro. He needs a landing place. Read the next item.
MEANWHILE IN EAST TEXAS
THERE’S A CRITICAL SITUATION
Please look at the faces in these photos — they’re in the same shelter as Astro. The report came from Smith County Pets Alive (smithountydogs@gmail.com) and was forwarded to us by the veteran rescuer/animal advocate Kimberly Jones. 
SC Pets Alive forwarded an appeal from Smith County Animal Control in Tyler, just under 2 hours east of the Metrosprawl on I-20.
The text of the note reads, “All below are urgent and must be tagged or adopted by Thursday 7/16 or will be euthanized Friday 7/16.” 
The contact point is Smith County Animal Control at 903-266-4303. It’s at 322 E. Ferguson in Tyler. Email shelter@smith-county.com.
Astro is #A48064225. He’s a 2-year-old Terrier mix who weighs 41 pounds and is described as “a little timid around people but warms up quickly.” That means he needs a human equipped with patience and love. 
Sadie (#A48069760) is about a year-and-a-half and weighs 60 pounds.

Boots (#48108444) is a 3-year-old, 51-pound Terrier mix who was found in Whitehouse on June 25 —had no chip. And he’s heartworm positive.
Tessa (A48060397) is a 5-year-old, 65-pound German Shepherd mix. Knows some basic commands, walks well on a leash and is people-friendly but may not be so swell with smaller dogs.

Lola (A48043407) is a 2-year-old, 45 pound Lab mix who has been in the shelter since June 21. 

Katie (A48062011) is a 5-year-old, 50-pound Spaniel mix who arrived on June 23. Described as “friendly and sweet as can be,” she also “loves attention and has a laid-back personality.” 

Spartan (A48062491) is a year-old, 29-pound Shepherd mix, in the shelter since June 23. Young and “timid at first but loves attention.”

And we'll close with Alexis (A48018009) is a year-old, 32-pound Terrier mix. According to the Smith County Pets Alive folks, if you’re not already a rescue partner at Smith County Animal Control, click HERE 

to ask about tagging the dogs.
You’ll need to send a copy of the non-profit’s 501c3 and “a list of people authorized to tag and pickup for your rescue.
Send the info to both Shelter@smith-county.com and Smithcountydogs@gmail.com.
 See more Smith County animals HERE.

MEANWHILE IN BRIDGEPORT,
A KITTEN AND SEVERAL DOGS
We got the tips on these animals from 4-Legged Helpers, the non-profit that focuses on getting attention for animals in small, often over-crowded shelters. 
We’ve mentioned some of these before. But they’re still waiting in Bridgeport and so are others. The kitten is Squirt, bottlefed from his early days. The bio reads, “He is a little miracle baby and he is just as precious a little sweetie as can be. If you have had a bottlefed kitten you know how completely loving they are,” reads the bio. He’s about six weeks old, has graduated to regular food but remains a “tiny” kitten in need of a rescue group.

Here are three faces of Freckles, a young female heeler without much of a biography. She’s clearly waiting for the right human to help her develop a happy life she can write about.

We’ll also point out this Pointer or Retriever mix Bo. Just waiting. He’s clearly an Earhound. [LARRY ASIDE: Bo’s ears look as if they may have been a prototype model for Branson’s Virgin Galactic spaceplane.]
The contacts at 4-Legged Helpers? Call or text either 972-897-4926 or 214-906-7680. Email either fourlegedfosters@yahoo.com or lhayden4652@gmail.com.

JOY IN MESQUITE,
AVAILABLE TO GOOD HOME

We got a note about this girl Joy from the volunteer dog biographers Debra Chisholm at the Mesquite Animal Shelter. In fact, Debra began the bio, “I have named this beauty Joy, a nearly pure-bred Siberian Husky who arrived as a stray along with a sibling on 7/3." That sibling was adopted on Friday. Joy's still on the available list on Monday.
Debra wrote, “Joy seems underweight at 42 pounds, is approx 5 years old and is not spayed.  She had a fun time in the shelter yard during the photo shoot exploring and fetching.  She is a friendly girl with a pleasant and charming personality.  She doesn't seem to know any commands.  She likes treats and takes them gently.  She is well-mannered (doesn't jump on you) and has a somewhat low-key nature. … All in all, she has so much going for her and is a delightful girl.” She’ll need a responsible, escape-proof fence. Use her ID #48140904 when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.

CONTEMPLATIONS
A WEEK, A THOUGHT, A LANDING
I came dragging into the office a little bit late Monday morning. Looking ahead, the clear vision was of the first 5-day workweek in a while. Yep. Take the rest of the day off. …
Yeah, I watched the live video of Richard Branson’s Virgin Galactic sub-orbital flight. And it brought back a lot of memories of watching “launches” (early missions in black and white!) in the glory days of NASA’s Mercury and Apollo programs. On July 20, when Jeff Bezos’ team launches later this month one of the passengers will be Wally Funk. When I think about this, I kind of tear up -- maybe I’m an ol’ sap, but Wally Funk was a member of the Mercury 13 Women In Space Program at NASA. A legendary top qualifier for a space mission, Wally never launched because NASA canceled the program.  High time she got the AOK for a mission. Have a wonderful time, Wally Funk!… Recommended reading: Lots of people saw the 1983 film The Right Stuff. And lots of people read the movie’s foundation, Tom Wolfe’s 1979 book The Right Stuff. A page-turner? Start it too late in the evening and you’ll be reading at dawn! … From the movie, here’s a tribute to Chuck Yeager — click HERE
and if you have to look up “Chuck Yeager,” go ahead, but be ashamed that you don’t know who that American pilot was. And, yes, be envious of those of us who have read and enjoyed and marveled at books by Tom Wolfe! 
—- Cheer space shots and good books by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by email dallrp@aol.com and put ‘USA RULES IN SPACE’ in the subject line. —-

A QUESTION FOR THE AGES AS A NAPPING CAT NAPS AND THE WORLD IS BROADCASTING..

At the risk of getting wonky with the world — though who could tell in the current off-the-beam sway of civilization — we turn the focus of Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap to the intellectual challenge of the ages: What was that cat thinkin’?
Nobody really knows, unless there’s a cat treat and an enthusiastic mew. Then there is a certainty of what that cat is thinking. 
But consider these pictures. (That opening photo is mononymous actor Simon portraying “somber observation” in his demo reel. In the background you see a portrait of our late pal, Inky, The Cocker Laureaute of Texas — he’s still teaching the Power of Emote with just his countenance on canvas.)

Moving along to the next pictures: One theory is that late at night, when Simon had control of the cable remote, this cat (full name Simon Mycroft Holmes) clicked onto the movie Cats and was inspired to begin studying acting in case the film is remade and this time producers wanted authentic cats to assay the roles rather than humans who think they can approximate the aura, tone and mental energy of a cat who can sing.

In this demonstration of Simon’s theatrical exercises, we managed to catch him “blending in” with the cast of The Closer late one night. 
He is a fan of that show. In the second photo, he approximates a reaction to a suspect’s response to a question from Deputy Chief Brenda Leigh Johnson, as portrayed by Kyra Sedgwick. 
In the second scene, er, photo, he blends in with the other police officers. And, in the background (left) is one of his favorite actors, the versatile Corey Reynolds in the roll of Sgt. David Gabriel (most recently, Mr. Reynolds has been hilarious in the role of Sheriff Mike Thompson in the SyFy Channel series Resident Alien — the alien is wonderfully portrayed by Plano High School graduate Alan Tudyk, a veteran stage and film actor.
 )
When you look at that photo, Simon seems to “belong there,” as if all good major crime investigation units have a veteran cat with intense understanding of human behavior.
As Simon says, “There are no small roles, only small cats.” He is, however, a large cat and can play a bigger role if needed.
And in the third scene, you see Simon giving a hard-edged, solidly stoic reaction to bad news that has reached the squad room. “Less is more unless you have treats, then more is more,” he told us in a brief interview before he nodded off on the cable box.
Our boy Simon could nod off at any time — in a drama, a comedy or during a hurricane report.
Now, one more thing — all good actors run their lines with someone to keep sharp before they go on stage or on camera. Simon has a line partner. This is her and she is named in honor of Deputy Chief Brenda Leigh Johnson. This little tabby girl is Deputy Chief Kittie Leigh Johnson. You’ll note that she is comfortable in front of the camera.
She is also comfortable on the job, too. You see us there many years ago on a reality show mission to Roswell, N.M. She and I were working undercover, assigned to gather information on a gang working to leak Unidentified Flying Object reports to the Washington media while enlisting elected officials to appear to support the presence of UFOs in the skies over America. 
We discovered that the “officials” were clones, their stories were gathered from unsold TV pilots through the years and the UFOs photographed in flight were actually three or four 1971 Chevrolet Vega hatchbacks wrapped in aluminum foil and held aloft by plastic trashbags inflated with hydrogen and sprayed with glitter. The designers used hydrogen because, one told us, “When a Vega engine blew up and left everybody walking, it wasn’t unusual and it probably didn’t get off the ground.” The ringleader had a friend in the special effects department at Plutovian Pictures.

What was Kittie Leigh thinking in this stakeout photo? Who knows? Literature regarding cats’ thoughts on UFOs is rare. Kittie Leigh’s hooded companion, however, was thinking, “I’m not sure about UFOs, but I do believe in the reality of a cat!”
As the late celebrated French writer Colette said, “There are no ordinary cats.” Canadian author/journalist Robertson Davies wrote, “Authors like cats because they are such quiet, lovable, wise creatures, and cats like authors for the same reasons.”

And some of those things may have been what Simon was thinking while working to improve his craft and his standing as “America’s Greatest Formerly Bottle- fed Actor Cat.”
His agent is said to be working on a better tag line. Also, he's attempting to get Simon an audition for the title role in Cat On a Hot Tin Roof. "I can play a roof," Simon dramatically asserts.
[DEAR READERS, Please send YOUR photos of YOUR slumbering cats and dogs to dallrp@aol.com so we can tell the world about them in Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. You’ll be inspiring people to adopt and you’ll be suggesting to insomniacs that a cable TV box is as comfortable as a pillow to someone who cannot nod off in the middle of the night.]
-- Offer TV viewing tips or audition advice by clicking on 'comment' below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put "DON'T QUIT YOUR DAY JOB" in the subject line. --

AS THE WEEK ENDS, WE CITE ANIMALS (PUPPIES & KITTENS!), A TICK TOOL, HERDS & BETH

EDITION OF FRIDAY, JULY 9, 2021 [PetPowellPress] Sometimes I open an email and see the face of a dog and think, “Haven’t I written about this dog before?” I suspect, all you Dear Rescuers and Advocates, that I am not the first person to experience “Deja Vu Dog” or “Deja Mew Cat” Syndrome.
THE BIG SHELTER IN BIG D
HAS FREE DOGS AND CATS
The occasion is the Bissell Pet Foundation’s #EmptyTheShelters event and you’ll see on the list of dogs and cats at Dallas Animal Services, a lot of big ol’ dawgs and little ol’ cats that look familiar and but aren’t really the same catface or dogface in your memory. These animals are building entirely new memories for themselves and the humans who adopt them. 
For example, that dog — that Earhound — is Harper, a year-old German Sheperd-type girl who weighs 54 waiting-to-be-happy pounds. The Bissell event runs through Sunday. And DAS’s post says, “All pets will be FREE to adopt either online or in-person during our onsite adoption hours." Go to the BeDallas90.org site  to get details and click HERE to see available animals, including this little guy Plutonium, one of many young and older kittens and cats waiting for a new home.
TWO GARLAND CATS
NEED ONE NEW HOME
Nola and Sushi are their names, finding one home together is their aim.
We got the note via Jennifer Sellers, the veteran rescuer/advocate who spotted them on a neighborhood page in Garland.
The story is they need to be “rehomed together.” Brown cat Nola is a girl; Suchi is the orange boy. Described as “friendly, loving cats,” both also are “fixed and vaccinated.” These indoor-only cats are a mere 3 years old.
The contact point for asking about adopting them is “ZC” at 469-803-7533.

Clearly they'll need one good bed with a comfy comforter and one window with viewing platform. Then, with a loving human, they can call the place "home."
THE MOM IS BRYNNA
AND THE PUPPIES….
While I may have seen these “types of dogs” before, this is the first time I’ve published these puppy faces. 
Aren’t they something! 
These are the 4-week-old puppies of Brynna — you see Mom in the last photo — very obviously the mom.
 These puppies are described as “bulldog mix with some Shepherd sprinkled in.”
That’s what we learned from the note we got from 4-Legged Helpers, the non-profit that monitors small, low-human traffic shelters in hopes of getting the right sets of eyes on dogs and cats that need homes or rescue groups or some other kind of good and decent break! 
Why are Brynna and the babies in the Lancaster shelter? 
The answer from 4-Legged Helpers: “Someone insisted on bringing them into the shelter. Being kept safe away from the general population but need out NOW. Note that all animals at this small shelter are vaccinated on intake. Mommy Brynna is sweet as sweet can be. Extremely lovable. Adores everyone.”
Mom needs a home, too.
To offer to help this family find happy homes, call or text 4-Legged Helpers at 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com or “Facebook msg” Laura Macias.”
 And remember this: Like so many shelters around here, Lancaster is “full.” 

MEANWHILE IN MESQUITE,
WAITING FOR THE RIGHT HEART
Cane, that’s his name. Our tipster, the volunteer dog biographer Debra Chisholm, reports that he’s a mixed-breed who was surrendered to the shelter on May 18 — that was in springtime! Why was he in the shelter? “Landlord would not allow the owners to keep Cane.” He’s 10 months old, weighs 58 pounds and has “so much pent-up energy. Combine that with kennel confinement and he’s ready to zoom. Keeps him from making an initial good impression, his bio says. Then, he also goofed up his leg and needs some healing time for that. He’s #47783929. Use that ID when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityof- mesquite.com.
That brings us to Faith (#47831797), a Pittie mix who came in on May 24 as a stray. Debra’s Faith bio reads, “We were disappointed when an adopter recently completed the paperwork but then never showed up to claim his girl on 7/3.  Faith weighs 59 pounds and is about 2 years of age.  She walks well on a leash and when led through the bay she did not react to the other dogs, even those who were barking at her.  She has a sweet disposition and is a spunky girl with an exuberant spirit.  She is a tail-wagging, happy-go-lucky girl with an outgoing and confident personality.  She always seems to look as though she has a big grin on her face.”
 Remember, use her ID when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email at rescues@cityofmesquite.com.
And you can see more dogs and some cats, too, by clicking HERE.
Among those cats and kittens is this guy Archie (#47687541), a just-over 3-year-old Domestic Shorthair mix who is listed as “Large” and “Orange.” He came into the shelter back on May 5 —he might have gotten larger since then, but maybe not oranger.
And there’s this kitten, Beth (#47907714) who came in on June 14 — she’s pushing 3-months old. [LARRY ASIDE: I ran her photo because (a) I want someone to give her a really great home and (b) it gives me an opportunity to link to KISS’s song Beth HERE and (c) there’s another Beth version in Contemplations. I guess I’m suggesting this: Adopt Beth and keep her name so, when she mews because she’s kitten-hungry, you can sing, “Beth, I hear you mewin’….”

CONTEMPLATIONS
TICK KEYS, HERDS & COMEDY
Until I opened my email Thursday, I thought “tick” was more pleasantly the first half of “tock.” Or maybe an irritating bug. But, no, here was the subject line: “Stock up on Tick Keys for a tick-free summer!” I grew up in the Land of Ticks, the fields, pastures and riverside grassy banks of Northeast Texas. A Tick Key -- I have no idea how to start a Tick. I’ve seen ticks at work. But I’ve never before heard of a “Tick Key.” A little research showed credit for the invention goes to a Connecticut man in the previous decade, but, then looking a little farther into the online resources, it was described as a “Nordic invention.” So, who really knows? All I can say is the message came from The Old Farmers Almanac’s marketing department. If only “spay-and-neuter” was as marketable as a “Tick Key.” …
I SEE IN THE NEWS that Dallas has reached “Herd Immunity” as far as that darned pandemic thing is concerned. Don’t you think it would be more appropriate for Cowtown to declare “Herd Immunity”?
BACK TO BETH, the KISS hit: We cite the entertaining and laugh-out-loud-funny (you wouldn’t show it in church or to the kids) movie Role Models from 2008. Got some raunch, got some words… It’s also got a great comic cast: Paul Rudd, Seann William Scott, Elizabeth Banks, Christopher Mintz-Plasse (McLovin in Superbad), the GREAT Jane Lynch, comic doctor Ken Jeong…..and includes, in the context of the story, a really funny version of Beth sung by the entertaining Mr. Rudd.  Yes, Dear Readers, your reporter is still, now and then, in guffawing touch with his inner adolescent. And for that I apologize to all my Sunday School teachers through the years.
—- Offer movie tips or behavior advice by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put “GROW UP, GOOFBALL” in the subject line. —-

MARLO/MARLOWE -- EITHER WAY NEEDS HELP; ASSORTED STORIES OF ANIMALS IN NEED AND A KITTEN PALOOZA

EDITION OF THURSDAY, JULY 8, 2021 [PetPowellPress] We were going to open this edition with a wisecrack, but then we remembered the Texas Legislature is opening for business again on Thursday. Not a proper time for humor, right? We’ll see, maybe.

EVERY NOW AND THEN
A GENDER SLIPS PAST…
The opening sentence in an appeal about this dog read, “Just found out Marlowe is actually MARLO, a precious girl dog. Please help!” 
Oh, you know, sometimes you get busy helping a dog and forget to look, I suspect. This girl Marlo, currently in the Lancaster Animal Shelter (described as “full”) is in need of a 501c3 rescue or foster, according to our tipsters at the non-profit 4-Legged Helpers.

Marlo had come into the shelter late in the afternoon a couple of days ago. The appeal reads that “This gentle, lovable, sweet girl was horribly attacked by what appears to have been another dog. It may be that she was in heat, possibly, from what we are being told.” 
The shelter rushed Marlo to the vet and now she’s in need of a place to recuperate other than a shelter. Call or text 4-Legged Helpers at 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com.

Use the same contact points when you find yourself needing to give a home to this kitten Pixie. How’d this “8-10 weeks old” kitten wind up in a small town shelter? “Found out and about on her own,” is the explanation. Yep, you’d think 8 to 10 weeks was still too young to get picked up as a stray.
LOTS OF KITTENS?
SCHEDULE A PALOOZA
We got this note from Operation Kindness, the no-kill shelter in Carrollton. 
It reads, "Operation Kindness is excited to announce a Kitten Palooza Adoption Event on National Kitten Day where guests will have the opportunity to meet kittens in person and find the perfect pet to join their families.” It’s an appointment-only event at the shelter on Saturday the 10th. Adoption fees will be “sponsored by Pet Supplies Plus.”
OK’s news release also says there’s a reason for all the kittens. It reads, “This year’s kitten season has been hectic due to the inability to spay/neuter feral cats in 2020 since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.”
And the quote from OK CEO Ed Jamison reads, ““Unfortunately, the pandemic shuttered TNR (trap, neuter, spay, return) opportunities for many shelters across the country last year, and we’re seeing an influx of kittens in need of loving homes. For this reason, Operation Kindness is doing its part to support these pets by dedicating an entire day to finding them families.”
Remember: You don’t need a special day to adopt cats and kittens from Operation Kindness.
We decided to include a few photos here. As you can see, there are plenty of kittens. But there are older cats, too, including this last boy. Lionel is listed as “11 years, 4 months old.” He’s been back at OK since June. His bio reads, “This sweet senior is an alumnus of Operation Kindness and came to us as a newborn kitten. Lionel is now looking for his forever family. Lionel is a charming boy who appreciates a quiet living space and nice, soft chin scratches.”
 Check out operationkindness.org.
LIVE-WIRE PEPPER IN MESQUITE
& A GIRL NAMED DIAMOND
Here are two dogs down on their luck, but fortunate enough to have gotten the spotlight of the volunteer dog biographer Debra Chisholm at Mesquite Animal Services.

First up is Pepper, described as a “live-wire.” Pepper (#48140546) is a “mixed Terrier breed who was surrendered to the Mesquite Animal Shelter on 7/3 due to the health of her owner.  She weighs 65 pounds, is about 1 1/2 years old and is spayed.  She has lots of energy and thoroughly enjoyed her romp in the shelter yard during the photo shoot.  Former owner reported that she lived inside and was OK with dogs, cats and children (theirs are 1, 11, 13).” [LARRY ASIDE: Our experience is that dogs really miss their kids. And isn’t that a sad thing to consider.]
That brings us to the “sweet girl” Diamond (#48137492), a terrier mix who arrived as a stray with a broken foot on July 3. [LARRY ASIDE: No idea if she jumped a fence to flee early fireworks and broke her foot.] Her bio reads, “She was taken to the vet and a cast was placed on her leg/foot.  The owners were contacted and they opted to surrender her because they could not afford the medical expenses resulting from the broken foot.  Diamond weighs 60 pounds, is about 3 years old and is spayed.  Former owners reported that she lived both in and outdoors, that she is OK with children of all ages, is house-trained and likes to run and play fetch.  Diamond also knows the shake, roll over and speak commands.” The surrendering family’s spokesman said, “She needs an awesome family with kids. We just can't take care of her."  
To ask about these dogs, use their ID numbers when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.
typing in the subject line TAG, ID 48137492.  If further information is needed please call 972-216-6283 or email at rescues@cityofmesquite.com.
CONTEMPLATIONS
TRASH; WEATHER; A MOVIE SPEECH
We got a new lid for our rolling trash bin from the city during the morning Wednesday. It was actually delivered by someone from the city, installed and left -- all very quietly, like some kind of Trash Bin Fairy showed up to do the repair. When I was kid nobody had invented plastic trash bags and the newest trash bag we could put in the big metal “garbage can in the alley” began life as a grocery sack from the nearby Piggly Wiggly. Things change.  At about the same time we were being served by Fort Worth, folks in Dallas (I'm still on the mailing list) were getting a note reading, “Recycling collection may be delayed” and why was that? The City of Dallas note read, “Sanitation is experiencing a laborer shortage resulting in intermittent service delays for customers….” Here’s a link to D Magazine’s story. I’m not in a union, but this might be a good time for sanitation workers to organize, drive up the salaries from under $13 an hour and learn to strike for better working conditions, etc.. Not that such a thing would ever happen in Dallas.
… Hurricane Season — it’s the only season that’s worse than the Texas Rangers’ season. Flu season moved into 3rd place.….
A patriotic beer commercial? I heard about it. Didn’t see it. But, it’s got Bill Pullman reprising his presidential role from Independence Day and here’s the LINK. God bless America. I’ll have iced tea with a slice of lime, please, while wondering if occurpants of UFOs have opened an advertising agency and gotten a major beer contract just for fun.
—- Offer advice or wisdom by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put EVERYBODY GETS A RAISE’ in the subject line. —-

THE ANIMALS & THE PEOPLE; THE PEOPLE & THE CHALLENGES; THE TRASH & THE PEOPLE

EDITION OF TUESDAY, JULY 6/WEDNESDAY JULY 7, 2021 [PetPowellPress] This edition covers two days because of my ribs. First, I’d like to apologize to every running back who ever took a solid hit to the ribs and didn’t immediately jump back up. And to every baseball player who took a fastball to the ribs and collapsed at home plate. I am sorry I yelled, “GIT UP! IT DON’T HURT!”
 All I did was fall onto the corner of a sofa and the rib injury — might be broken, might be bruised, doesn’t seem to make any difference — has rendered me unable to run a marathon. Might also have made me delusional — I haven’t run farther than from the batter’s box on a softball diamond to first base in 50 years.
 OK, so now that you know I’m typing while leaning to the left and avoiding reaching for the mouse by lifting my right arm —ouch, urrrggg, son of a biscuit-eatin’ ribcage—- we’ll continue. Oh, yeah, I found that locust “shell” on our front porch over the weekend — it was next to a sign that read, “MOLT PEACEFULLY HERE. WATCH FOR TUMBLING HUMANS.”
DOG DAYS OF SUMMER 2021
SPECIALS AT STRAYDOG INC.
The great sanctuary and adoption facility Straydog Inc. in East Texas has been conducting its summertime adoption event and there are still plenty of loving dogs available. Plenty. 
We’re spotlighting a couple of them.
[LARRY ASIDE: I picked Onyx first -- that's his early photo at Straydog -- in honor of my late, great Dane/Lab mix Hambone Jack, the Canine King of the Blues. He is a dog who is with me now — even though he’s been gone a long time. That’s how strong the love is with the big dogs like Onyx. They demonstrate why well-behaved humans are the luckiest beasts on the planet.]
 
The Straydog bio of Onyx (here’s the LINK) begins by telling you that in early January the Straydog folks got a tip about a “beautiful Great Dane” being taken to Morton’s Small Animal Vet Clinic. He’d been found, apparently dead, on the side of a country road — buzzards were swarming, the story reads. And then there’s this: “As the sheriff was trying to get the buzzards away, he realized the dog was still alive but extremely weak due to a large gun wound on his leg. He picked up Onyx and took him to Morton’s.”
You see photos of Onyx in the early days when he was starving and later on when, a healthy dog, he romped and liked to pose with kids. 
Here’s the LINK to ONYX’S BIO.
When you go to straydog.org and click on the ADOPT/MEET OUR DOGS buttons, one of the dogs you’ll run across is Domino, a Dalmatian mix who is described this way: “He is a very sweet boy and loves people. He is blind in one eye, and we think he is quite hearing impaired, possibly totally deaf. He loves to play and will be a great companion. If you have room in your heart and home for this special boy, please come out to the shelter and meet him and then submit an adoption application form today.”

Want more info on any animal in this miracle-working shelter, email straydogshelter@gmail.com.
[LARRY NOTE: As you see in the photo on the left, if you can volunteer to work at Straydog Inc., there might just be a place for you. Domino can explain office procedure to you, rules of snacking at your desk, how to fill out an expense form, where staffers can go when they really need to go. I'm sort of kidding, but my theory is, based on observation, once a person signs on with Straydog Inc., that person's heart is fueled by the mission and the mission is fueled by the heart. Remember, straydog.org gets you to all the info about humans and animals at this noble jewel of East Texas.]
MEANWHILE, IN LANCASTER,
OPPORTUNITIES FOR PUPS
On Tuesday we got this note from the 4-Legged Helpers about one of the small shelters the non-profit monitors. The subject line about the Lancaster Animal Shelter read “OMG. All still there. NONE RESCUED. NONE ADOPTED. More have come in.”
If you want to adopt, foster or rescue, get in touch with the Helpers by calling or texting Laura Macias at 214-949-2726 or by emailing cat_girl_71@yahoo.com.

 These two are sisters. The lop-eared all-white girl with the cute black nose is Avery. The sis poised in “ready to play” position is Alison. 
They were strays. Their bio says “both are young and seem to adore all people.” [LARRY ASIDE: The email also asks, “Please, won’t you help save one?” At readlarrypowell.com we fall in with the “Save ‘em all” philosophy.” Saving one is a step in the right direction. Step two is even better: Save 'em all.]
And, you can save this Beagle/Hound mix, Jessica, by adopting this long-eared dog with the “sweet and affectionate” personality.

To keep up with the array of animals on the clock at the Lancaster shelter, make contact with 4-Legged Helpers and ask to be put on the mailing list (cat_girl_71@yahoo.com) or follow ‘em on Facebook HERE.
CONTEMPLATIONS
TWO DOGS HOME; A BOBCAT VIDEO;
A COMPLAINT ABOUT THE TRASH….
Remember this photo from the July 4 Firecracker Weekend? Two dogs, terrified of fireworks, ran from home and hid under a stranger’s pickup and wouldn’t come out. Yep, their Momma — she’d been looking for them, — came and got these two from a neighbor. Everybody’s happy until New Year’s Eve, I guess. So, we’ll start with this reminder: On New Year’s Eve, make sure your animals are INSIDE in a SAFE PLACE where they can’t hear over the TV set or Uncle Sippy on his third or fourth glass of “Sing-along-With-Me-Vodka Surprise Punch” or whatever is served to welcome in the New Year Baby. Loud they know is easier to take than loud that they don't know. …
While perusing assorted notes on a neighborhood bulletin board we ran across this brief video of a backyard visitor on the East Side of Cowtown — near the Trinity River, near a nature preserve, near major freeways, near shopping centers, near Meadowbrook Golf Course. My point is, you never know where these felines will show up, so protect your dogs and outdoor cats — make room in your house!!! HERE’S THE LINK. ...
And, in case you think Predator Felines are the only dangers to your sweet bit of civilization, consider this photo and a bit of an angry post on a FW neighborhood bulletin board. Not sure if the writer is actually from FW or originally from Dallas — the tone is consistently North Texas, however. It reads, “Dear A-holes that trashed Oakland Park! Went to fish a little on the night of the 4th of July! Y’all were partying, drinking and letting your kids run around where cars were passing! And y'all were throwing fireworks too, which was all nice and fun, right? Anyways, went to fish again today! The park is trashed!!! Wish I knew where you live so I can come and shove your stuff you left at the park up your *** front door! P.S. Here is just a little part of what you forgot in case you wanna go claim your 5th of July prize!” [LARRY REMINDER: Sir, I hope your appeal is the first big step on the way to everybody respecting your neighborhood. FYI: I heard this on the radio and saw it on TV: DON’T MESS WITH TEXAS.” Hope it starts working soon. Depends on people being responsible. As you know, it's one of the trio of traditionally ignored Texas appeals: Spay, neuter and don't mess with Texas."]
—- Offer advice or trash-bagging tips by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com. —

IN THE WAKE OF A HOLIDAY, SOME ANIMALS ARE IN NEED OF A LIFE PRESERVER...

EDITION OF MONDAY, JULY 5/TUESDAY, JULY 6, 2021 [PetPowellPress] As we reached July 5, we discovered that — surprise! surprise! — animal challenges had not called a time-out for the Fourth of July holiday. We begin in Plano.
LUCY — ONCE A FAMILY DOG,
FATE RENDERS HER HOMELESS
This note about Lucy came from veteran Plano animal advocate Debbie New. 
It’s sort of a “legacy appeal”. Lucy is currently waiting for someone loving and responsible to come get her at the Plano Animal Shelter.
As Debbie began in her note, “Ages ago I volunteered for what was then called the Collin County Humane Society. We were a tight knit group and many of us are still in touch with one another. A few weeks ago, a dog wound up at the Plano Animal Shelter because her owner passed away. That owner was a volunteer with the Collin County Animal Shelter. Someone had been keeping the dog for a few months but could no longer care for it. A relative was contacted and could not get the dog. Lucy is up for adoption and is just the sweetest thing ever! … She is a spayed female German Shepherd mix and about 11 years of age. She is house-trained and knows how to use a doggie door. Lucy is good with other dogs as well as children and is protective of children but not in an aggressive way. She is a smart girl who knows the commands sit and lie down and she likes to sleep on the sofa. Lucy loves to cuddle with you and just smiles and smiles. I hope she can find a good home so please share. Her ID is A180376. The shelter phone is 972-769-4360. I just want to cry every time I see her.
Like most people who have been involved in animal issues for a while, there’s no place in our homes. As Debbie wrote, “I wish I could take her but am going to do whatever I can to find her a forever home. It’s so sad.” 
Here’s the PetFinder LINK to Plano’s animals-in-waiting at the city’s shelter.”
FROM NORTH OF BIG D WE GO
WEST TO FORT WORTH’S SHELTERS
This one will make you really want to lecture someone.
The story was posted by Kristen Barg Morrison and has to do with Gorda who was still in the shelter Monday. She’s #A46808571. The 4-year-old, 65-pound, not spayed and heartworm positive girl with the incredibly sad look was surrendered to the shelter on June 8. Why? “Escapes,” the owner said.

Kristen’s description of her encounter at the shelter read, “I was taking out other dogs and her sad eyes and demeanor broke my heart. I could easily leash her and take her outside. She was still very timid in the yard ... but eventually came up to me for some pets.
“Her previous owner said she jumps over the fence and chases cars. She got along with dogs, children, farm animals. Lived mostly outside, enjoys tennis balls and walks, knows sit. Her kennel card said she can be selective with other dogs. I’m going to assume she doesn’t like hyper dogs all over her.”
To ask about this girl, email fwacctag@fortworthtexas.gov."
She’s at the FWACC Chuck Silcox Adoption Center, 4900 Martin St. in southeast Fort Worth.
WAIT, THERE’S MORE: THIS IS ELEPHARE 
Another Fort Worth Animal Care & Control Dog, Elephare (#47954116) came to the city shelter via a hoarding case about a month ago, the report sent to us said. “I love her,” reads the bio sent by Kristen.
This dog is 10, weighs 65 pounds, is Spayed and heartworm negative.
The bio reads, “She lived with other dogs (big and small) and cats. She had an ear infection but the shelter cleaned it out and started her on meds. She is so sweet and easy going! Her tail does not stop wags, easy to leash/unleash, and enjoyed exploring outside.” (Contact point is fwacctag@fortworthtexas.gov.) She’s at the FWACC North Animal Campus, 351 Hillshire in FW. [LARRY ASIDE: No idea where a dog would get the name 'Elephare.' Anybody know?]

ONE OTHER FORT WORTH NOTE has to do with a subject dear to my heart, writes yours truly, Larry Powell the longtime newspaper reporter, editor, columnist. This item points out why someone should always be publishing daily papers. 
A note from Fort Worth Animal Care & Control reports that the “south shelter ran out of newspaper…They use newspaper for all the cat areas. They currently are caring for over 100 cats, so it’s really important they get more donated!”

The note continues, “You can drop it off at 4900 Martin St., Fort Worth, 76119, before 6 p.m any day of the week….”
We took a look at the cats on the FWACC list of residents. You probably can’t blame the shortage of newspaper on this cat. But the cat needs a home, anyway. That beautiful girl with the spotted abdomen is young Lily — she’s available. Here’s a LINK to the FW animals. Lily is #48045430, a resident since June 21.
CONTEMPLATIONS
ASSORTED NOTES FOR A TUESDAY
Is it possible that the 2024 presidential campaign has already begun? Gosh, remember when the politicians would give us about a year off before they started slinging stuff. Ah, the good ol’ days. … Our dogs and cats were very calm during the Fourth of July weekend. Didn’t seem to give the nearby flashes and explosion a second thought. My nativeDallasOakCliffspouse Martha explained, “They’re all born and raised in Oak Cliff — they’re accustomed to gunfire and explosions.” She was kidding. About halfway. … And that brings us to this photograph. It came from a neighborhood bulletin board in eastern Fort Worth. A neighbor posted on Sunday night, “These two little ones are … under our truck. They’re terrified of the fireworks, and I cannot get them inside. Does anyone recognize them?” A note Monday afternoon read that the dogs were still under the truck. Animal control had been called.” And someone else said, “Awesome job! If they are chipped, they will have them home soon.” Based on observations of human nature, I’m seeing too many “ifs” in that sentence. [LARRY ASIDE: May those dogs have a guardian angel that is strong as can be after spending a weekend getting knocked around by fireworks and bad intentions.] And, you know what? Bless those neighbors for having faith in the system that is supposed to shelter animals when their humans let them down! May it work like a charm.
—- Offer advice or gripes by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put “SAVE ‘EM ALL” in the subject line. —-

CELEBRATING THE USA; AND ONE NIGHT THE CAT PLAYED PULLING GUARD QUITE ROUGHLY...

For this Fourth of July 2021 Holiday Weekend Edition of Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap, we present the story of one evening with a prospective athlete. Someone with great skills of speed and trickery.
Enjoy your Fourth of July, Dear Readers, and remember to celebrate this great nation. Every Fourth of July makes me wistful for 1976 and the Bicentennial of the American Revolution. That’s a photo from the Charleston, S.C., Bicentennial Parade — America was beaming with that sort of celebration. Today, we feel the same way — the United States is a good place to party with a purpose!
 See how much the price of a stamp has gone up? It's like gasoline companies have been advising the post office.
Back to my American catnap story:
 We were watching TV and the clock on Wednesday night in the last week of June. Why does this matter? Cats matter. That’s why.
The cats have an 8:30 treat delivery appointment night after night. 
They let the humans in the household know when it's 8:30 -- they tell time by the bottom of the hour commercial breaks on cable TV. Cats and aging Baby Boomers — we tell time by TV.
Have you ever seen a natural-born football player? Moves like a cat, you know. 
As 8:30 approached, I went to the pantry and got the box of catnip flavored treats. Each night I dispense six to a dozen treats to the cats in their individual places in the house. 
The Senator, an older wander-up gentleman, is usually lined up with Esme the Formerly Feral Kitten in the breakfast nook on the right side of the table.Both are squalling orders.

Kittie Leigh, a tough little tabby whose real name is Deputy Chief Kittie Leigh Johnson, is on the back of the bench, er, sofa, in the living room.
This particular night, William Powell, the office cat, was lined up at pulling guard in the kitchen and waiting. 
He may be the best pulling guard since the Green Bay Packers' used Jerry Kramer’s blocking to beat the Dallas Cowboys, 21-17, in the famed “Ice Bowl” game on New Year’s Eve 1967 at Lambeau Field —the temp was 15-below. You can look it up.
William, fyi, has been prepping for a visit to Oxnard later in the summer and the Cowboys training camp. The boy has ambition.
You can see in the photos that, when he is working as Office Cat Willie Poh-Poh, he likes to nod off near the window.
 And he is a big fan of Peyton Manning. In that photo I caught him dreaming about football and, in his sleep, he was yelling "Omaha! Omaha!" (NFL fans will chuckle a that.) 
Back to the nightly Treats Bowl......
At precisely 8:30 I called the treat signals and the cat team began to hit its assignments.
William ran parallel to me. 
As I was about to cut to the right and hand off some treats to Kittie Leigh on the back of the couch, William tried to run between my ankles and he flat out knocked my nimble feet right out from under me. 
I fell through the hallway door. I’m quick on my feet, but thanks to William, I was off my feet. And I was crashing toward a glass-top side-table. I changed trajectory toward the big fluffy couch while holding, in my left hand, that big box of catnip treats without a lid. A fumble would have resulted in the biggest dogpile, er, catpile, since a Cowboys running back fumbled at the goalline.
Quickly, a veteran at being knocked on my keister, to use on of President Reagan’s favorite terms, I looked for landing spot and there was the back of our living room couch.
My footing was shot -- my cleats didn't grab on the hardwood floor, so I prepared to reach out with my right hand and grip the back of the couch. 
But what I grabbed was the fluffy back cushion on the couch, not the frame of the furniture.
My momentum carried me forward past my goal and with great force I fell, and the hard wood corner of the top of the frame on the couch, bashed me right in the lower part of my right ribs. 
It was the second most painful hit I've ever experienced on the field of play. Some of you fellows know what the first most painful hit might have been.
Gasping for air, I fell to the floor. 
Not one dog threw a flag for unnecessary roughness.  
They were busy eating the cat treats that had flown out of the container. 
(That's William on the left, back in his "Office Cat I Didn't Trip Anybody" pose.) The cats who had not slid under furniture for protection, continued watching a TV commercial for a medicine that says it’s good at “Coping With Adult Pain.”
And William, who weighs about as much as a bag of cement and knows how to sweep the feet out from under a graceful athlete, moved to his place on the cat bench in the office and waited for his rewards -- treats that I would deliver with my left hand because I could not raise my right hand into a throwing position. 
Even as I'm typing this, I am feeling a constant sharp pain at the bottom of my right ribcage, difficulty taking a deep breath and a desire to take pain pills that haven't yet been invented. Trust me, it takes quite a bit of force to reach my ribs through my naturally occurring padding.
The Senator, who once ran an undisclosed championship NFL team, immediately said, "We can trade William. Maybe get a linebacker for him and talk ‘em into throwing in a defensive back who's a ball hawk. The season is coming up. Check with the Panthers, Bengals, Jaguars — not the Lions. They never did anything to help Mattie Stafford get to the Super Bowl.”
William's agent, our Oak Cliff Feral Cat Stevie Ray, issued a statement on behalf of William: "You people brought him in to act like a good, solid cat and now you're surprised when he does. I think he needs a raise."
That's William Powell, photographed while motionless on me as I tried not to grimace. He's a good napper. Dreaming of being the first Texas-born cat in the NFL Hall of Fame. Or perhaps of taking his signing bonus and buying a treat factory.
It could happen. He knocked me across the couch and onto the living room floor and I fumbled. Maybe he can play defense, too. Our other big cat, Simon, was participating in the U.S. Olympic try-outs — he’d entered the “clean and jerk” only to learn that it was a weightlifting event, not a fishing contest.
[DEAR READERS: Perhaps your cats and dogs have lives outside the home. Please let us know and send photos of them sleeping or dreaming about their missions, goals and expectations to dallrp@aol.com.  That's William watching game film with his agility coach, Porche Noel. Now, send us your photos and we'll use your happy lives together to influence other people to give a dog or cat a chance. And you’ll help insomniacs get some sleep as they have themselves hypnotized to believe they are championship athletes in big game moments, though I must caution that when you are hypnotized as a bowler, you’ll need a long hallway with a thick carpet and a bowling helmet. Rolling to the end of the alley can give one a stunning headache.]
— Offer advice or money by clicking on ‘comment’ below and if you send money, email it to dallrp@aol.com and put “DAYDREAM BELIEVER” in the subject line. —

THE NOBLE MISSION OF FOSTERING; MR. BIG; OLIVE'S AWFUL PAST; SAVORING THE '60S?

EDITION OF THURSDAY/FRIDAY JULY 1/2, 2021 [PetPowellPress] For the long weekend, we have a long report on animals and the opportunities people have to help them. Read on and marvel at the adorable availables.
LET’S TALK HOW TO ALLOW YOUR
HEART TO GROW POWERFUL WITH LOVE
You say you don’t have a place or time for an animal in your life. You just haven’t looked. Maybe you do. Here’s a way to find out: Open the Loving Chamber of your heart and foster. Proud of the love you have in your heart? Use it to help a dog or cat. It’s an experience you may enjoy and you may earn extra credit when the roll is called up yonder and there’s nobody who doesn’t need that. [LARRY ASIDE: Yes, I have experience fostering — good experiences. And if you’re reading this, you probably have fostered, too. It’s rewarding and it does help you understand how your heart works.]
This morning I opened an email from Paws in the City, the Dallas-based rescue group and saw an appeal for help fostering Naya, about 3 and 10 pounds of “sweet and timid Chihuahua mix.” She was, the Paws People say, “found as a stray with missing fur and irritated skin due to severe flea infestation. The fleas are gone but Naya will need medication and time to heal her skin and regrow her fur. Luckily, her condition is not contagious and should clear up soon.” To apply to foster Naya, go HERE. 
You can be the hero, the angel, the do-good human who makes the world a better place.
MR. BIG NEEDS A HUMAN
WHO CAN HELP WITH LIFE
Earlier in the week we got a note from Mary Sullivan about a momma dog and a her puppies needing help in San Antonio. People have responded. (We’re still following that story and reporting updates as they come along.)
In the meantime, this cat may need a foster and definitely needs a new home. It’s a story of love.
Mary has an appeal for this quite handsome fellow known, charmingly, as “Mr. Big.” The note reads that the very loved Mr. Big needs a new home. Why? “His devoted owner, who’s had Mr. Big for his whole life, was recently diagnosed with early-onset dementia.  Mr. Big is a diabetic, and his owner is having some trouble giving him insulin shots now because of her diagnosis.  Essentially, she’s terrified that she’ll give him the wrong dose and will inadvertently harm him. 

“At 15 years old, Mr. Big is a seasoned veteran and just wants to live out his life in a sunbeam. We’re looking for an adoptive home for him, if possible, but a foster would also be much appreciated.  Unfortunately, time is of the essence in this case.  Mr. Big is neutered and current on his vaccines, but will be due for them in another six weeks or so.  We’ll cover them, along with his annual exam.   BTW, Mr. Big is mild-mannered and uses a litterbox.  A perfect gentleman!”
As Mary says, “If we can find Mr. Big a new home, we’ll not only save a life, but put the owner’s mind and heart at ease during a very difficult time.  I’m the contact person for Mr. Big, so feel free to reach out if you have any questions.”  And thanks a million for helping out with this guy.”  
Mary’s non-profit group Share Our Space Fosters for Pets is working with Mr. Big. Email mary.Sullivan@mcpaulaw.com and as Mary says, “Thanks a million for helping out with this guy.”
LANCASTER HAS A LOAD
OF DOGS FACING ‘THE THREAT’
Word arrives from 4-Legged Helpers that there are “incredibly sweet dogs almost out of time” in the Lancaster Animal Shelter. 
We’ll highlight some.

First is Piper, a little girl Shepherd Mix who somehow wound up in a shelter with a ticking clock and a supply of euthanasia juice. Yep, let down by humans. Shouldn’t happen again. Be a shame if it turns out that this little dog was born to live just long enough to be killed in a city shelter. 

Then there’s Sophia, maybe 2, who has a “beautiful coat …with a blonde overcoat — it is really unique and quite beautiful,” the Helpers’ bio says. Very sweet dog. And her eyes are captivating.
To ask about helping these two or ANY of the MANY animals in the Lancaster Shelter, call or text 4-Legged Helpers President Laura Macias at 214-949-2626 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com. See more of the Lancaster dogs by clicking on this 4-Legged Helpers Inc. Facebook page.

AND NOW WE SPOTLIGHT
A RESCUE NAMED OLIVE
I remember the open house in 2014 when Dr. Erin Shults proudly launched “the very first non-profit veterinary clinic that serves rescue organizations only.” Mazie’s Mission continues to be a dream that’s come true — read about it at maziesmission.org.
And we’re going to spotlight a dog named Olive who is described, in an email that arrived Thursday, as “the newest addition to the Mazie’s Mission Family.” 
One look at her photo and a veteran of animal advocacy will do two things (as I did): (1) Say ‘God bless Mazie’s Mission for taking in this poor girl” and (2) want to get a moment of stern, private, non-prosecutable conversation with the person who did this to Olive. The horrid treatment of this dog — for lack of a better expression — just BLEEPS me off.
The Mazie’s Mission report on this “stray” reads, “Our doctors were able to examine her, and discovered that Olive has a litany of health issues caused by a lifetime of neglect. Poor Olive was likely used for breeding, and has had MANY litters of puppies. Her body is tired from the constant strain of pregnancy and the burden of external and internal parasites. Olive suffers from heartworms, as well as a severe flea infestation and skin infection.

“In addition to the parasites allowed to infect this sweet girl, she has also had an excruciatingly painful at-home ear cropping (likely done with scissors ) that has caused scarring and thickening of her ear pinnas. To add insult to injury... Olive was kept outside and the flies chewed what was left of her ears to pieces, causing painful scabs.

“Since being rescued, Olive has had a medicated bath, has been started on medications for her pain, infections, and parasites, and had her first pajamas ordered for her! She also got her first puppuccino. Welcome to your new life, sweet girl! It's only up from here.”

She’s going to need a home, some loving care and some understanding. Get in touch with Mazie’s Mission if you want to help her by adopting or donating or fostering …maybe just visiting and telling her you love her.
[NOTE TO THE PERSON WHO CROPPED OLIVE’S EARS: I’d like to meet you out by the bicycle rack after school — if you get my drift.]
NOW, WE TURN TO MESQUITE
FOR ADOPTABLES AND TALES
Here we go with reports from the Mesquite Animal Services where the management wisely lets animal lovin’ people interview dogs and write their biographies in hopes of getting them adopted ASAP. 

First up, we have Judi Brown’s story of Skyy, 2 1/2-year-old, 53-pound Pittie girl who was “surrendered in the field” to a Mesquite Animal Control officer. Financial reasons, we’re told. Judi writes that Skyy “will literally jump for joy to meet you. She’s a very exuberant, friendly, happy girl that has a tail that wags constantly. When she first got out into the yard she was jumping for joy and did jump on me. After she explored the yard and romped around for a little while she settled down. Even though the temperature was in the low 80s she spent a lot of time standing by the door. That tells me that even though she likes to play in a yard, she’s probably been an inside dog. When I sat down she would come to me to have her ears scratched. She sat for treats. She’s what they call leash biter. She’s obviously not used to a leash but when she wasn’t trying to bite the leash she did walk well without pulling. … She’s a very sweet loving girl that deserves a loving home.” Her ID is 48106269 — use it when you call the shelter at 972-216–6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com to ask about Skyy.

Judi says this guy Bailey, a 2-year-old Jack Russell, was surrendered on June 30 because “he was too energetic for their family.” [LARRY ASIDE: He's a Jack Russell, people, what did you expect?] During the photo shoot, Bailey was “in constant motion.”
The surrendering family also said Bailey didn’t get along with other dogs and was “confrontational to other dogs when taken for a walk.” They’d only had him a month and a half. Bailey is good in a “one-on-one” situation without other dogs around. He’s #48115465. Remember, he’s “high energy” and “fun-loving” and “friendly.” 

These two dogs, Fireball the Terrier Mix, and Jax, the Pittie/Staffie/Bull Terrier mix, were both “seized and placed in productive custody at Mesquite on June 7,” reports dog biographer Debra Chisholm. 
A shelter officer seized three dogs when they were found “in a kennel in an unshaded area of the backyard with no food or water at a vacant house.” 

One of the dogs has been adopted, but that leaves Fireball and Jax waiting for a home that will treat them with decency.
Fireball is the 4-year-old terrier mix who weighs 34 pounds and isn’t spayed. Debra says Firewall “walks well on a leash and did not react in an aggressive way to the other dogs when led through the bay.” Ran and played in the shelter yard and “enjoyed fetching tennis balls.” Fireball is “frisky and spunky” and has an outgoing personality with high energy. She’s #47932703.

Jax was the third dog in the seizure. He’s about 9 months old, weighs 40 pounds and isn’t neutered. Debra’s bio of Jax reads, “He appears to not have been well cared for and has some scaly skin and fur.  Despite the life he has lived, he is a tail-wagging, sweet pup with an outgoing and confident personality.  He is friendly and will jump on you in his excitement.  He enjoys attention and wants to hang out with a human friend.  This high-spirited fellow will be happy to put his old life behind and find a new person or family who will give him the life he deserves.” He’s #47932693.
Remember use their ID numbers when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesdquite.com.
That brings us to Talon, maybe a year old and a 50-pound mixed breed who was surrendered to the shelter on June 25. Why? “Reason for the surrender was that the owner has a busy work schedule and was away from so much that he did not have the time to devote to Talon.”
Debra writes, “Talon is nervous and uneasy in the shelter environment.  He has a low-key personality and is calm and well-mannered.  He walks well on a leash.  Owner reports that he is house-trained, likes playing with balls and knows the sit, lay down and heel commands.  Owner also stated that he is afraid of everything.  Talon will need some extra patience and TLC in order to build trust and warm up.  He is cautiously friendly and followed me around the yard during the photo shoot.” Ask about #48083392 when you contact the shelter.
CONTEMPLATIONS

CRUELTY, CONVERSATION AND POEMS
Honestly, that story of Olive and the amateur ear-cropping gets to me. My Cocker Spaniel Inky’s tail was cropped too short by a creep and Inky and I believed it kept him from getting into the major dog shows. I’ve seen Pitties who suffer from the idiocy of nitwit humans. Badly cropped ears leave them vulnerable to disease and pests. Rhetorical question: What the hell is wrong with some people?…

Two food and literary notes: One is that after the Winter of ’21 shut down our neighborhood Waffle House, it is has re-opened after remodeling and I feel as if I’m on the brink of sipping coffee at the Algonquin Roundtable in the 1920s. That’s a literary reference. And here’s another one: I got a note from a noted (how’s that for note usage) seller of assorted practical and impractical items and the subject line read “The Italian Electric Tomato Press” and it took me back to 1968 and the publication of Tom Wolfe’s counterculture examination with the same “word beat” The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test as The Italian Electric Tomato Press. Waffle House was founded in 1955 — I guess someone could have finished off a late-night by having a cup of coffee, a waffle and a chapter explaining the ‘60s while music played on the jukebox from 1968’s debut production Hair: The American Tribal Love-Rock Musical. …
I'm working on a book of poetry about the glory of garage door repair. Ups and Downs and Smiles and Frowns. May include elevator limericks and escalator laments.
— Offer help or options by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put “COWSILLS” in the subject line. —

HERE ON EARTH, WE HAVE DOGS, CATS, MYSTERIES OF SPACE & WAYS TO DO GOOD

EDITION OF WEDNESDAY JUNE 30/THURSDAY JULY 1, 2021 [PetPowellPress] Call this a transitional edition. It moves from month to month and we just don’t even notice except for the fireworks. Remember it’s PYCFIWF time. Protect Your Critters From Idiots With Fireworks.

Oh, and today we have the story of a big dog who has “an exuberance for living.” Somebody needs to adopt him! Keep reading.
FYI, June 30 is, according to Holiday Insights’ online calendar, Meteor Watch Day. The calendar staff’s research couldn’t find a reason for the day since it’s really light on meteor events. That is except for one particular time: June 30, 1908, that big meteor hit Siberia and, the Insights people say, “knocked down trees in a 40-mile radius and struck people unconscious some 40 miles away.”
Oh, and July 2? World UFO Day. No known connection to Siberia or Washington, D.C. Yet. You expecting anything? That big dog is -- keep reading.
AND AT THE COLONY,
STILL PLENTY OF CRITTERS
I saw this announcement posted by The Colony Animal Shelter and its manager, our longtime animal advocate pal Mark Cooper. So I decided to see just what’s available in the shelter. And I clicked on this LINK for cats and this LINK for dogs. 

Among the cats is this fellow Charlie who is 13 years old and needs a place to go. He’s #48002852 and he came into the shelter on June 15. While marveling that such a handsome, ear-tagged fellow could be NOT living in a comfy home, I clicked on the kittens and found a bunch named after fisher. You’ll note in this array of Piscine-monikered kittens, there’s one named Jolene. I’m almost certain there’s no fish species named Jolene. But, I haven’t wet a hook since my teenage years, so, maybe things have changed in the world of naming fish.
And, when I looked at the dogs, I found Winston (#46477506), an 11 1/2-year-old German Shepherd mix. He came into the shelter on JANUARY 23. This is a guy who needs a home to enjoy and a home that will enjoy him. He’s described as a “good boy” who can be frightened by loud kids, so he’d rather be with “older kids or no kids at all.” He knows “sit” and “lay don” and likes to be both outside and “inside laying on the couch” next to a human who is brushing him.
Here's The Colony's SHELTER LINK. 
There are videos of many of The Colony animals on the shelter’s Facebook page HERE.
THE CONTINUING CHALLENGES:
BRIDGEPORT, WILMER, LANCASTER
You can scroll down the past week’s editions and find Bridgeport Shelter animals still waiting for rescue or adoption. Among them are these two pals. Gidget is the German Shepherd described as a pretty sweetie and Kimmie is her pal. A person who “could apparently no longer care for them released them to the shelter” Kimmie, “such a little sweetie pie” is described as a “Pocket Bulldog mix.”
 4-Legged Helpers, the non-profit that general focuses on smaller shelters and rescued animals on the southern side of Dallas, is reaching a cross the Metrosprawl to help Bridgeport’s animals in the shelter northwest of Fort Worth. To help any Bridgeport animal — dogs and cats — call or text the Helpers at 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com. 

And, yes, 4-Legged Helpers also focuses on the Lancaster Animal Shelter and there are several animals on the brink of a bad holiday if humans don’t save ‘em. Among those animals is this Earhound Spike, a “Tri Aussie Shepherd Mix” who was picked up as a stray and, though he has a chip, nobody has ever come to claim this handsome, “loving and sweet dog” who “adores all people and children.”
And, we’ll finish the 4-Legged Helpers roll call with Emmie and Koda. Two dogs in need of help from a “501c rescue,” says the Helpers’ note. 
The dog in the car is Emmie, a stray picked up in the Wilmer area — no operational shelter in that city right now, reports 4-Legged Helpers. But Emmie, the Helpers say, is a “very pregnant young Shepherd or Black Mouth Cur Mix expecting 5 adorable fluffy puppies.” The dad is a “gorgeous Lab.” 

And Koda is this 5-month-old Great Dane or Mastiff mix. Big paws. Crate-trained. Loves to play. He was first rescued and vetted by “someone needing help finding a rescue he can go to in order to ensure he gets a great home.” Again, call or text the Helpers at 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com.
AIM YOUR HEARTS TOWARD
MESQUITE’S ANIMALS, TOO
Volunteer dog biographer Debra Chisholm pinpointed three canines in need of some help now.
We begin with Luka, a 95-pound, 4-year-old Pittie with possible Dutch Shepherd/Chesa- peake Bay Retriever in the family tree. He came into the shelter on June 21 as a stray and nobody wanted him, so you can adopt him or rescue him — whatever it takes to get him out of the shelter and into a loving home. He knows “sit,” will sit for treats and “seems to want to please his human friend.” He tends to jump on his friends, so maybe not a good match for a home with little kids. Debra writes, “He just seems to have an exuberance for living.” [LARRY ASIDE: Yes, Luka is a dog who we all can envy!] He is #48043377 — use that number when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.

Same contact points for Paisley, a “delightful and charming girl” described as a “Mixed Breed with American Pit Bull/American Bulldog/American Staffordshire Terrier in the mix.” The 42-pound, 3-year-old dog was a stray who arrived on June 25. 
 “She walks nicely on a leash and ran and played in the shelter yard during the photo shoot.  She climbed on the play equipment, on the bench and jumped up on the ledge of the wall.  This girl needs a high fence!  She is friendly and has an outgoing personality.  She enjoys being shown attention.” Paisley is #48080320.
And cute Louie waits — he came in as a stray on the 23rd and, Debra writes, “sadly, no one has come looking for him.” He is about 14, weighs 12 pounds and isn’t neutered. He walks “very nicely” on a leash. Also, “For his age he is an on-the-move fellow who does not often stop and seems to have a lot of nervous energy. … He is sweet and friendly. Louie seems tense and uneasy with all the noise of the other dogs and probably just doesn't have a clue as to where he is or how he got here," Debra writes. "From what I observed he has cloudiness in his eyes (though he gets around and doesn't seem to be blind) and there is quite a bit of scaliness on his skin/fur.  He walks hunched over and his spine is prominent.  He has ridiculously long nails.  He does not seem to have fleas.  Someone has not taken good care of him and now he has ended up in a city shelter.” He’s #48065513 when you call the shelter at 972-21-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite to get him into a great place that deserves such an angel.
 See more dogs and cats In the Mesquite shelter by clicking HERE .
There are scads of cats, enough for many clowders, in the Mesquite shelter. Some are named for the Michael Jackson Family, some are named for popular dishes, one is named Portabella for a mushroom, and there’s this girl named Eleanor of Aquitaine. She’s #47872249. She came in on May 28, so this photo may not quite represent her at her current age. You can look up Eleanor of Aquitaine — the human’s history is a lot more complicated than the cats; but the cat’s rescue will be a lot easier. Make the call, send the e-mail.
CONTEMPLATIONS
SPACE ALIENS, EARTH DAYS & SONG
Most frightening 1950s film about space aliens? Not of This Earth with a guy whose eyes had no pupils. Or maybe Invasion of the Saucermen — it could happen. Any other nominees? …
Continuing our opening theme of “Days,” We learn that July 1 is Canada Day/Dominion Day plus Creative ice Cream Flavors Day, International Chicken Wing Day, International Joke Day and National Postal Worker Day. I’m a vegetarian, so I love ice cream, jokes and postal workers. They deliver. …. As we wonder what’s to become of this big messy civilization on beloved Planet Earth, here’s some MUSIC TO CONSIDER.
—- Offer UFO info by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put ‘Save the Planet’s Bank Accounts’ in the subject line. —-