ReadLarryPowell.com

April Fool's Day, no joke...

EDITION OF FRIDAY, APRIL 1, 2016 (PetPowellPress) -- I was going to come up with a really good April Fool’s prank but, considering this presidential election campaign, anything else pales in comparison.
So, let’s just focus on some actual animals. They don’t enjoy SuperPacs, but they do have a need for public support.
IN GRAPEVINE, WILL TRAVEL

Of course, you’ll have to come get Sabrina. She doesn’t have a license to drive. She does, however, have a microchip, according to Grapevine Shelter ACO Kristina Valentine’s note. She also says “the owner wouldn’t call us back.”


So, there’s 46-pound Basset mix (check out those front ankles on #30696172) waiting for someone to help her.

To offer to help, email [email protected] or visit the shelter. read about Sabrina HERE.  

You can tell by the profile shot that she’s got a “stretch” body. (Her previous name was Duffy.) And she runs to the front of her cage barking at people. How can that be cured? Take her home.

Kristina contacted animal advocate Karen Lee about Sabrina and Karen describes Kristina as “the awesome ACO at the Grapevine Animal Shelter.”  Grapevine doesn’t have a foster program, so it’ll be up to a rescue group or an adoptor to get her out.

MEANWHILE, THE EULESS CROWD


As long as we’re noting that Karen Lee is trying to help Sabrina, we should also mention that she has distributed an alert about the Euless Animal Shelter.
Why? Because, she writes, “The Euless Animal Shelter is FULL on the dog side and unfortunately all of our fosters [Trinity GAP Rescue] are full too! ... We have some adorable kittens in the shelter that are available on Monday so stay tuned……and many dogs and cats in foster homes!  Adopting a foster pet frees the home to save another shelter pet so please don’t overlook the fosters!

You can see all of the Euless critters on the Trinity GAP Rescue site HERE
 and on Facebook HERE.
For pets in the shelter, contact the Euless Animal Shelter at 817-685-1594. The shelter is located at 1517 Westpark Way in Euless.

We couldn’t resist using the great Earhound to illustrate this appeal. That dog is Radar (#16312), formerly known as Mardi. He’s believed to be a “Bull Terrier/English Silver Lab mix. Possibly under 2, weighing around 50 pounds. 
His bio reads, “He has the most beautiful coat and the cutest ears that stand up and touch each other like they’re kissing.  He also has a crooked tail that the vet determined he was just born with and does not affect him at all.  Just makes him even more unique!  When he turns and looks at you, your heart will melt.  He is just so darned cute.  And big as he is, he will sit up and beg.  Radar has a very sweet nature, and absolutely loves people and aims to please and be loved!  He came to the shelter as a stray, already neutered, so we have no idea where his family is, but Radar is hoping for a new family that will love him fur-ever.” 
He rides well in a car, gets along “with the cats and dogs he’s met” and being boarded. (To ask specifically about this Earhound, email [email protected]. )  

TRYING TO PLACE THE FAMILY DOG
Take a look at this photo.

Dinesha Schmidt of A Different Breed forwarded the notes on this appeal. The dog’s name is -- oh, wait. No name was included with these photos. But the dog is about 6, neutered and weighs about 60 pounds. The person who has him now wrote, “We think he might be a Catahoula Pit mix. We got him when he was a puppy from someone leaving him in a hot car.”


So, there you have it. To ask about adopting this guy, email [email protected].

EVENING UPDATE: His name is Jackson, goes by "Jack," the humans say.

BAD RAP IN BURNS FLAT

Terry Lynn Fisher, the resilient rescuer in Burns Flat, Okla., sent a note about this wonderfully-coated, healthy, 35-pound dog.
“This sweet girl has got a bad rap,” she wrote. “A couple of weeks ago, she bit a neighbor’s kid. Another neighbor said the kid was hitting her and pulling her tail, and deserved to be bit, but the parent raised so much hell they took her to vet for the quarantine hold.  She came back to the pound last Friday. Owners never came to get her so she is now available. She is a doll. She loves to be held and loved and is great with my granddaughter. She needs a safe place to go ASAP.” .
Email Terry Lynn at [email protected].

THE APRIL SPECIAL

Here’s the news release:  “The SPCA of Texas’ three Metroplex-area clinics will be hosting an exciting special all April long! Everyone who makes an appointment for their puppy or kitten (ages 6 months and under at the time of surgery) for any day in April will receive a very special Spay/Neuter and Wellness Care Package to start their puppy or kitten off in the best health for a lifetime of love for just $100.
The package includes the following:
Spay/neuter surgery for puppies and kittens 6 months and under at the time of surgery.
Rabies vaccination and either DAPPV/FVRCP vaccination
Deworming
One month supply of flea treatment
Appointments are required, so make yours today before we run out! Call 214-742-SPCA (7722) Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to make your pets’ appointments.

That cat? Rocky (#144933) -- 6 years old, small and available at the SPCA.  Why is he wearing the collar? He got a deal on it.

CONTEMPLATION:
Here’s the poster for this year’s East Lake Pet Orphanage Wine-on-the-Roof celebration.  What’s to contemplate? This: The huge amount of good ELPO has done for animals since it was created by the great Dr. Karen Fling.


You can see ELPO's adoptables at elpo.org. Wine-on-the-Roof (click HERE is a good cause that helps animals and people, too.
--- To comment, uncork your BubblyMouse and click below. ---

AFTER THE STORM, ANIMALS, PEOPLE AND A CONTEMPLATION

EDITION OF THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2016 (PetPowellPress) -- Let’s just see what’s in the mailbag today. 
This dog wasn’t in the mailbag. 
That’s the famous Texas Earl the Cheeseman, a dumped in the park dog, who, when photographed, was boldly awaiting the arrival of Wednesday evening’s storm.

On TV it looked much worse than it was in our Oak Cliff neighborhood, so this King of the Canines relaxed.
Earl, though he was rescued from Kiest Park, is not an outdoorsy dog. He prefers a roof in storms, air-conditioning in summer, central heat in winter and cable TV with the premium package. Here’s our report. Earl’s gone back to sleep, so we’ll have to type it with hands instead  getting him to use his delicate Rottie paws. (My funspouse Martha created this artsy focus of Earl with her computer. He's happy with the attention -- at all times!]  Just FYI, he’s the best hugging dog in the known universe. And somebody dumped him in a Dallas park. Their loss.
[LARRY ASIDE: I’d like to thank the dumper for letting me have him, then I’d like to take a Readlarrypowell.com Two-by-Four of Enlightenment to them for making him suffer emotionally because he’d been dumped by the human he loved. I watched him go to each car that pulled up to see if his human was coming back to get him. Disappointed, head hanging, he’d retreat to a spot under a tree and ease down to wait for the next car.  I couldn’t leave him there. He needed someone to love him.]

UPDATE ON THE OL’ OKLAHOMA LAB
Here’s one of the reasons Readlarrypowell.com adores Terry Lynn Fisher, the beacon of rescue in western Oklahoma’s little town of Burns Flat.  She wrote this followup to the ol’ Lab we featured in a our last edition.
“Remember the old lab dog that couldn't stand?  well, here is the rest of the story. HER name is Morgan..... and this old girl is SIXTEEN YEARS OLD.....  I found her owner. When I explained where she was and that she had BAD arthritis, but the pain could be regulated with pain med, I was told they are country people and they do not waste money on vets and things like pain meds... they were just going to KILL HER.

“No... that was not going to happen....So, I convinced them to surrender her to me... She is now at my vet, being treated and I will keep her there a couple more days then bring her home. I am asking for help... with her vetting... her pain medicines and most of all, a SAFE AND LOVING PLACE for her to go. If you can help, please let me know.”
Help Terry Lynn help Morgan by emailing [email protected]. Terry Lynn will give you specifics.
[LARRY ASIDE: To Morgan’s former humans. I know a lot of “country people” who go to the ends of the earth to get a vet to their animals. That is a sad excuse to give for just being a cheap, sorry excuse of a human.]

THE BABY PARADE CONTINUES


Since early in the week, Dallas Animal Services has been coping with two Parvo Puppies. Now, Danielle Fry, the DAS Animal Rescue Coordinator has been coping with kittens.

“These 3 little bottle baby kittens are at Dallas Animal Services and in need of transfer,” she wrote. “These babies are itty bitty.  They were found and brought into the shelter by a concerned citizen.  They were cold and one kit still had the umbilical cord attached.  We warmed them up and they ate a little from a syringe.  They are super young and need transferred asap! Please email [email protected] if you can help!”


[LARRY ASIDE: Does anybody need more proof that it’s (a) Puppy and Kitten Season in Dallas and (b) that the reason spay/neuter is important is so animals won’t be born just to die a painful, awful death. Let’s hope the DAS folks can work some more miracles.]

MEANWHILE, OUT AT THE LAKE

Yep, more tales of critters courtesy of the greatest lakeside tipster on the planet, Sydney Busch of Friends of the Animals at Cedar Creek Lake, operators of the world’s most successful spay/neuter clinic at Gun Barrel City. The mention of the Friends of the Animals Spay/Neuter Low-Cost Clinic will turn out to be appropriate as you will see in this note from Sydney. 
She writes, “This beautiful 40-poundish mother dog showed up at a volunteer's house and gave birth. She is gentle, loving - deserves good family...great with other dogs and has not bothered the cats.

“HER SPAY SURGERY IS PAID FOR!”
Also, though you can see two and mom easily here, there “are several puppies, all have been very socialized, have been around other dogs, cats and kids.”
Kind of in a hurry to get them adopted.
Email Toni Miles at [email protected] or Sydney at [email protected] or call 903-451-4701 or 214-808-4701 (cell).


HELPING THE CRITTERS AT IEAS
Ah, the International Exotic Animal Sanctuary, i.e., www.bigcat.org. Our longtime big and small cat tipster Cathie Desell keeps us in the loop on things needed by the folks at the sanctuary. And she’s sent a note and says “If anyone has anything to donate, just let me know.” She’ll make sure “it all gets there.” Email her at [email protected].
The appeal reads, “IEAS is need of large bath towels, rags, and even fleece blankets. These items are used on a daily basis by staff, interns, and even a few of our resident animals! If you would like to donate any slightly used or even new towels, rags, or fleece blankets you can contact our office at [email protected] or 940-433-5091. Donating a simple items like these make a difference in the lives of the resident animals here at IEAS.”


[LARRY ASIDE: That wonderfully exotic face belongs to a Tiger at IEAS. Go to the bigcat.org website and see Lions and Tigers and Bears and other animals who you just don’t expect to run across in North Texas. The other wonderfully exotic face belongs to Deputy Chief Kittie Leigh Johnson, a first cousin to the Tiger. Maybe a second or third cousin. Kittie Leigh is a wander-up Oak Cliff cat. She is the closest thing there is to a free-roaming Tiger in Oak Cliff, except for the occasional Bobcat and, maybe, a Walking Catfish out of Five Mile Creek. Every now and then they come up out of the creekbed to run off a Coyote. That’s what I’ve heard. Not really. But it seemed possible for a second, didn’t it. I mean if you can find a place at Boyd where Lions from Africa, Tigers from India and Bears from North America live together, a Walking Catfish monitoring the Coyote population doesn't seem that farfetched.]
SPEAKING OF WILDLIFE

The social media folks with Dallas Animal Services posted this on the Nextdoor.com sites around town. And, in the aftermath of the storms, it make sense to remind folks about these possible challenges. Here’s the notice verbatim: 
“If you find what appear to be orphaned or abandoned baby wildlife, please check the DFW Wildlife Coalition website at www.dfwwildlife.org before disturbing them, or call 972-234-WILD. DFW Wildlife Coalition is a non-profit dedicated to public outreach and education about the native wildlife in our area.

“If you find an injured animal, please call 311 or 214-670-3111 to report it. Depending on the situation, you may be referred to 911 Wildlife, or one of our officers. Please keep your own safety in mind and call before attempting to handle any type of ill or injured wildlife. 

“If you have any other concerns about wildlife in your neighborhood, both the DFW Wildlife Coalition website at dfwwildlife.org and the 911 Wildlife website at www.911wildlife.com can help.”

HORSES RESCUED; HELP NEEDED AT SPCA

The SPCA of Texas rescued 11 horses from Hopkins County earlier this week, “our largest equine rescue this year,” the SPCA says.
 The news release also says, “The owners abandoned these beautiful horses, which were found in various stages of malnourishment – several are missing hair due to rain rot and lice. Their hooves are cracked, split and overgrown.”
The Animal Cruelty Investigations Unit’s team of “investigators, rescue personnel and cowboys to round up and recover the horses. Now the work begins to rehabilitate these special animals so that they can later be matched with their forever homes.”
The SPCA expects rehabilitation of each horse to cost “several thousand dollars’ worth of medical care, feed, and attending staff in the coming days, weeks, and months ahead.”
 Go to spca.org to donate to the recovery of the horses.

CONTEMPLATIONS: Probably nobody reading this has been able to avoid an encounter with Alzheimers. If you live long enough, family members, co-workers, friends get the awful diagnosis. And you don’t have to be all that old. It shows up in people in their 40s and 50s, not just in their 60s, 70s and beyond.
We got a news release from Joyce Connelley at Marshall Grain Co. 
It reads, “The first ever Bark to End Alzheimer’s event will be held on Saturday, April 16, at Marshall Grain in Fort Worth. The event is sponsored by Marshall Grain Co. and all proceeds from the event benefit the Alzheimer’s Association.
”
What’s the inspiration? 
The Marshall Grain Co., news release reads, “Bark to End Alzheimer’s is the creation of Marshall Grain bookkeeper, Anne Shults, whose mother died of Alzheimer’s a few years ago. Following her mother’s death, Anne formed a fund-raising team to participate in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Last year, her co-worker, Kristin Walesa, became her co-captain, and in the fall of 2015, the two conceived Bark to End Alzheimer’s,’which Marshall Grain sponsors.”

Marshall Grain’s Owner/President Jim Connelley said, “We’re all very proud of Anne for her past efforts to raise money for Alzheimer’s through the Walk to End Alzheimer’s.  She has worked very hard, along with Kristin, to organize the Bark to End Alzheimer’s special event. Our other employees overwhelmingly want to support her and it’s important that we honor their loyalty and enthusiasm. Also, by partnering with her in this way, we can have a much bigger impact and raise more money for the Alzheimer’s cause.”
The free event is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 16, Marshall Grain’s Fort Worth 2224 E Lancaster Ave. -- it’s south of the Beach St. crossing over I-30 on the Dallas-side of Cowtown.
Organizers say, “Guests are invited to bring their dogs out for free hot dogs, raffle prizes, doggie contests, a bake sale, and more. There is a $5 entry fee (donation) for dogs participating in the various doggie contests. Attendees can also purchase Marshall Grain’s exclusive ‘Bark to End Alzheimer’s’ purple pooch bandanas for a $5 donation and human-sized t-shirts for a $10 donation. All sales and proceeds benefit the Alzheimer’s Association -- North Central Texas Chapter.”

--- To comment, gently grip the memories that touch you and click below. ---

Missing Jovi, dogs on the clock and a Pilots video...

EDITION OF WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30, 2016 (PetPowellPress) -- There is a missing Boxer named Jovi whose family is desperately trying to find him in Arlington -- that story in a moment. You see a dog above in his natural state -- PeaWee (his spelling!) cuddling on a  couch. To the left, you see an Earhound named Tia, on the clock in Lancaster.
To the right, you see the Parvo Puppies that Dallas Animal Services is trying to get into a rescue situation. We mentioned them in yesterday’s edition. Here’s the update from DAS Transfer Coordinator Danielle Fry. “Parvo can be treated so we are hoping to find ways to help these littles. So far the pups are still in need but we aren’t giving up.  We started them on treatment and they are eating and hanging in there! “ She later told us, “So far, they are active enough that we should be able to give them time.  We are still hoping someone could step up to help but I am hoping we can care for them until better if need be.” Offer to help by emailing [email protected]. Save two lives this time. Save more after that. Save ‘em all.
JOVI IS MISSING IN SOUTHERN ARLINGTON
Honest-to-pete, the missing dog stories break my heart. So, I’m posting this in hopes of getting more eyes looking for the handsome Jovi.
His human, kindergarten teacher Monica Wayts, sent us this note about her dog, who may be roaming between Kelly Elliott and Park Springs roads in southern Arlington.
She writes: 
“Our beloved 7 year-old male boxer, Jovi, went missing Monday, March 21,  through an unsecured back gate. We've been working on our home, preparing it for selling, and somehow didn't check that it was latched. Imagine my dismay when I returned from work on Monday afternoon about 4:30 to find him missing. He's never been out before (on his own). He's the kind of dog that sits in the yard (unleashed) as if there's an invisible barrier keeping him close. I'm sure his sniffer got the best of him and off he went.
“He was spotted at the Burton Academy just down the street and around the corner on Monday around 12:30 then again around 3:30 (I'm sure the sounds of children lured him close). When he caught the attention of the Assistant Principal, he and another teacher attempted to get close since they saw his collar and tags. He ran off. He was also spotted the next street over chasing the mail lady.
“The next (verbalized to us) sighting did not come until Friday the 25th. He was spotted the previous evening, so we set out in search of him in a residential location about 4 miles and across a freeway away. There was only one eyewitness. We posted flyers, did a walking search, and asked whomever we could stop if they had spotted him.
“After several more excruciating days, we got word through the Nextdoor app that he had been spotted at 10:15 p.m. on Sunday 3/27 touching noses with another boxer on an adjacent residential neighborhood another almost 3 miles away from the sighting on the 25th. It was late, but the witnesses (neighbors) are pretty sure the Boxer they spotted had a collar and heard his dog tags when he once again trotted away.
“We have huge posters up in our neighborhood, flyers around places that he has been spotted: neighborhoods, gas stations, vets, animal shelters, parks, schools, churches, recreation parks, and at gas stations that will let us. We're on the Nextdoor app, have a FB post that has been shared over 200 times. He's micro-chipped and is identified as missing in the system. Boxer rescue is aware that he's missing and several random strangers are circling neighborhoods daily out of concern.  
“He is a tan pure-bred Boxer with a docked tail, white chest, and white-tipped paws. He weighs around 75 pounds. He was wearing a blue Denver Broncos collar and photo identification tags. He has floppy ears and is showing signs of graying on his jowls. I feel like we have the whole city helping to look for him. He just won't stay still long enough for an actual spotting to turn into a rescue.”

The contact information is on that poster. [LARRY NOTE: Bless the people and their dog and we’re looking forward to writing the happy ending story ASAP.]
THE LANCASTER PRESSURE COOKER


Our longtime tipster, the vigilant Tomi Ortiz, spotted the crisis in the city shelter she monitors, Lancaster. The volunteers at the Furbabies of Lancaster Facebook page posted these dogs and wrote a disturbing note about Nyla, Max, Tia and Coco:
“The hourglass is running out of time--THIS THURSDAY--only 2 days. We have NOTHING in the works to save any of these precious doggies--NOTHING. Most are just puppies. All are sweet and deserve their loving, forever home. Furbabies Family please share--spread the word--save their lives. Lone Star is willing to rescue Coco, Nyla, and Max but we NEED FOSTERS. No one is stepping up to save their lives. Please ADOPT or FOSTER or RESCUE. PLEDGE to attract rescues. They are located at the Lancaster Animal Shelter, 690 E Main St, Lancaster TX. Please PM us asap if you can help.” 
Here’s a FACEBOOK LINK.

PEAWEE’S WAITING

This is a more formal photo of the sleeping dog in the opening photo today.
Karen Lee, the animal advocate at Barkleyworld.com, is keeping up with the fate of PeaWee, a year-and-a-half-old Border Collie Healer Mix who is losing his home because his human is being deployed by the U.S. military. [LARRY ASIDE: We have some Lapsed Baptist Boy Prayers we’re using for the safety of both PeaWee and his human Korina.]
T
his handsome dog is neutered, micro-chipped and current on shots. “A true cuddle bug, this cutie is friendly, housebroken and well-behaved,” his bio reads.

The catch for this 40-pound fellow is that on Friday, he’s going to be pound-bound. 
Karen’s note says the Trinity GAP Rescue needs to find a foster for him. Or you can adopt him for $50 through Trinity GAP Rescue. Email [email protected] or you can ask more info about him by emailing [email protected].
CONTEMPLATIONS: Tawana Couch, longtime animal rescuer and founder of the Society for Companion Animals, sent a note about this dog and two others. She wrote, “SFCA rescued these dogs and sent them to New York.” She included a video sent by Michael Schneider of Pilots to the Rescue who said, “Just wanted to share the video the student journalist made. Nice job!” Click HERE to see why this nice lady is kissing this nice pup! And, if you want to get busy as a volunteer for SFCA, email [email protected]. Go to the SFCA website HERE and see how you can help animals get out of town. What are we contemplating here? Why can’t we get more video of positive rescue events in Dallas, Texas? Email them to [email protected]. We're proud to promote the angels at work in this state. Or anywhere... One more note about Dowdy Ferry Road. Those people who are working to beat back the Force of Idiocy that has been allowed to reign in that area ought to be named Citizens of the Year in Dallas. We’ll also take nominees for Elected Animal Protector of the Year. I don’t think it’ll take long to read the deluge of nominating emails. Thirty-seconds, maybe, if the computer is slow that day. ... Saw in The Big Paper Downtown that there’s a move afoot to make Dallas a “Smart City.” Some of the people around here better hope there are no tests. You don’t think we contemplate marketing the Readlarrypowell.com Two-by-Four of Enlightenment because this place teeming with geniuses, do you?
--- To comment, try to embrace positive thoughts, grip your UpbeatMouse and click below. ---

Parvo puppies, an Oklahoma Lab, an SPCA chopper and contemplations...

EDITION OF TUESDAY, MARCH 29, 2016 (PetPowellPress) -- Who knows how this will turn out? Puppies with health issues are always a challenge.

We know how it might have turned out about half a decade ago.
That was in the Cat-Left-In-the-Wall era, before Dallas Police Lt. Scott Walton was assigned to re-energize the city’s animal shelter and before Jody Jones had been hired (May, 2011) to run Dallas Animal Services.
Parvo meant certain death.
But on Monday, there was a sign of a real difference in attitude. Danielle Fry, the Animal Transfer Coordinator, sent a note out to rescue partners and interested newshounds. Here’s the text (and you’ve guessed those are the puppies, of course):
“Dallas Animal Services currently has two little pups that are parvo positive and in need of transfer. These two puppies tested positive for parvo today.  Due to the large amount of animals we take in, we are just not prepared at this time to treat parvo.  We have a wonderful program with Rockwall Pets and Austin Pets Alive with transferring parvo positive dogs.  Unfortunately, we have seen a large increase of parvo cases coming from our community.  It also appears that Austin has as well, they are getting full.  DFW Rescue Me is picking up 3 others today that have also tested positive. 
"We are looking for more local options to help some of these parvo cases.  If you can help these puppies, or are equipped to assist in future cases please email [email protected].”

These little girls are 7 weeks old.They are A932414 and A932415.
And if you can’t help them, there are plenty of other dogs and cats that someone else hasn’t grabbed ahead of you!
Remember, the shelter is at 1818 N. Westmoreland at I-30 in West Dallas. Call 214-670-8298. You can stop by without an appointment and make a new friend or two.
MEANWHILE, AN OKLAHOMA CRISIS
Yep, a story from Terry Lynn Fisher, the relentless rescuer in Western Oklahoma.  We used to refer to her as the “resilient rescuer in Burns Flat,” but it’s like branch banking. She reaches out everywhere to help.

In this case, it’s a sad tale, but it might work out if Terry Lynn can get some help. She wrote, “This poor old dog has found his way to a lady's house in a town near me. She doesn't know what to do so she contacted me. He is an old Lab. He was on her back porch this morning (Monday) and when she tried to get him up, he can't stand. I have him in the way to my vet. Please. If anyone can help with this big boy, let me know. I will need help with his vetting and afterwards a safe place for him to go.” [See the brief movie by clicking HERE. 
Email Terry Lynn at [email protected].
 
LOOK, UP IN THE SKY

The SPCA of Texas sent out note Monday evening that on Tuesday, weather permitting, a new HVAC units will be installed “gently” by helicopter on the roof the the SPCA Animal Rescue Center.  It’s “empowered by PetSmart Charities Emergency Relief,” the SPCA says. And the system will prepare the center for, the SPCA says, “hot Texas summers and unpredictable winters. The ability to heat and cool the building will equip the building to temporarily house large-scale animal anti-cruelty seizures...” The HVAC system is made possible by “a generous gift from the Snyder Foundation, a longtime supporter of the SPCA of Texas.” And the SPCA asks that the location of the center be kept “confidential as the building may be used to house sensitive animal cruelty cases.” [LARRY ASIDE: We’ve heard tales of cockfighting idiots staging raids to reacquire their confiscated fighters. These people aren’t the nicest of folks, you know.]
CONTEMPLATIONS: We saw in The Big Paper Downtown that people are working hard to prepare wooden crosses to put out in the Dowdy Ferry Road animal (and sometimes human) dumping area. Read the story HERE.  It is an admirable effort to draw more attention to a despicable situation and it will be interesting the see if the big-hearted City of Dallas, in its never-ending effort to fight the spiraling crime stats in the news lately, will write sign ordinance violation tickets to all these participants. Maybe give them tickets for littering or illegal dumping. After all, they’ll be able to catch THESE people -- they're guilty of giving a damn. Yeah, sometimes I'm negative -- it's when reality and experience combine to remind me of human behavior.  ... Comics who left before we were done laughing at what they said? How about Garry Shandling, who doing a TV appearance, said, “My dog watches me on TV. So, if I may take this opportunity, ‘No! No! No!’ “ ....  The emails I get. Over the weekend someone named “Astromedium Ron” sent a note asking, “Do you know your future?” Then on Monday, someone claiming to be “James Stocklas” wrote to me (his capitalization), “$2.5 million has been donated to you by James. this is Real. For More Info Contact...” When it comes to money, never trust anyone who can’t handle capitalization. So to speak.
--- To comment, grab your SurefireGetRichMouse and click below. ---

Cats, baseball, dogs, coyotes, editing, monkeys & marsupials...

EDITION OF MONDAY, MARCH 28, 2016 (PetPowellPress) Baseball is on the way. Weather permitting, the Texas Rangers open 2016 a week from today. Some of you will stop reading here because you don’t give a hoot about sports. Please read on and see the connection between Major League Baseball and your own life. It’s rich. And sweet.
April 16 is Blue Bell Ice Cream Sunday -- the first of many planned during the season.  Schedule doesn’t show a Chipotle Lettuce Play Ball Day. Just a little gentle ribbing of two of America’s favorites. [For you animal folks, Bark at the Park is May 14. See the whole schedule of special attractions on the Texas Rangers home page HERE].
In the meantime, as a person attempting to type while my boss, The Senator, sits between me and the keyboard, let’s just note that no cat has ever made it to the Major Leagues, though the great New York writer H. Allen Smith, who finished off his years in Alpine, wrote Rhubarb, about a feral cat that inherited the Brooklyn Loons baseball team. When Hollywood made the 1951 movie version, it is said to have taken 14 cats to complete the filming. Anyone who lives with a cat can understand that. Just try to get one to do what you want it to do when you’re taking the family portrait.
Who was H. Allen Smith?
One of the most successful, best-selling humorists of the 20th Century. Just Saturday at Lucky Dog Books in Oak Cliff I bought a copy of one of his last books, Rude Jokes, published in 1970. What was “rude” in 1970 turns out to be “quaint and charming” for the humor of 2016, i.e., to H. Allen Smith and people who can read, a 4-letter word is not a punch line.
Now, in the spirit of Rhubarb and The Senator, let’s get back to the critters.


 

A PETITION ON LAST MONDAY ABOUT FIRST MONDAY
Canton’s First Monday Trade Days (now the first Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday & Monday of each month) has been around since the 1850s, according to several historical notes on assorted websites. However long it’s been operating, the big focus on it from the animalfan point of view has always been opposition to the way leftover inventory is handled in the aftermath of First Monday. Animals unwanted at the end of the run often find themselves dumped along the side of the road while the entrepreneur motors off on the way home to start over with the breeding. Sounds harsh. 
There’s a petition online now to get the State of Texas to ban the sale of puppies at Dog Alley at Canton -- parvo is the big motivator, the big TRAGIC motivator. See that petition  HERE.

A TRIBUTE TO LADY

Our pal Dianne Cole, veteran rescuer with a big heart sent this note: “I've finally written my tribute to one of the best dogs I've ever had, Lady.  I cried so many tears this morning typing it up and I miss her and Cisco so much.  Times like these I wish I didn't love animals so much...they bring us so much joy, but it hurts so much when we lose them.” That’s Lady from one day when she was snuggling in the covers. Read Dianne Cole’s tribute to Lady, one of the dogs she and her husband Mike have adored for years. Adored. Not really a strong enough word. Love. Not strong enough. “Will miss” -- not strong enough. It’s tough to pick a word that covers all the emotions. Click on our Prayers and Passages button in the upper right corner of this page to read about a dog who captured hearts.

TWO ANIMAL SHELTER NOTES


THE BIG PAPER DOWNTOWN posted a story that says Dallas Animal Services “saved more pets than it euthanized last year.” Read it HERE
 
THE BIG PAPER IN HOUSTON, the Chronicle, published a story about the “County sheltertaking steps to lower kill rate.” Read it HERE
 
Are elected city officials beginning to actually pay attention to animals in TWO big Texas sprawls? Could this be the second thing Dallas and Houston would have in common, the other being lousy traffic?
[LARRY ASIDE: Remember, Readlarrypowell.com is consistently in opposition to cities using the the ol' Traditional Texas Rule of Animal Care: "Got an animal problem? Let's kill it." Idiots.]

TWO TERRIBLE WORDS:
OWNER SURRENDER

We got the note about these Denton dogs from our usual tipster, the constant shelter watcher Amy Poskey who works to get animals safely out of the McNatt Animal Shelter in the little university town right up I-35 north of Dallas.
The shelter is at 3717 N. Elm in Denton. Call 940-349-7594 to ask about an animal or email any of these addresses:  [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], and/or [email protected].
Click on the art to make the images grow attractively larger.
These dogs -- Lou(below), Pink (above) and Rex(left) -- are all owner surrenders.
In most shelters, that puts them on a fast clock. The only thing between them and a needle is a human heart. 
Look, there are more than 7 million people living in the 13-county hunk of Texas known as the Dallas/Fort Worth Greater Metropolitan Area. There must be five or six hearts that have room for these dogs. For crying out loud. You don’t need a special permit to cross a county line with a dog. Or a state line either, if you want to drift down from Oklahoma and pick up a Denton dog.
Pink is that beautiful Lab/Pointer mix. Rex is the Heeler mix. Milo is the big-tongued Staffordshire Terrier mix.
All three of them rode happily to the shelter, got out and were left behind. It ought to be a crime, unless they place they were living was a lousy home. Then it ought to be two crimes.


SOME FUN WITH GREYHOUNDS
These photos came from the Greyhound Adoption League of Texas. You can see these and more on the GALTx Facebook page. That one on the left is "Electra Bunny."  And, If you click HERE
you can see, as the Facebook intro says, “Dolce Gambino is a pampered pooch getting an awesome breakfast served up in bed!”
GALTx does a gangbuster job finding homes for dumped and/or ex-racing dogs.
You know where Greyhounds wind up? On the couch. With you. That's the legend.

CONTEMPLATIONS: Our pal, the longtime animal advocate and fun person Diane Combs has been having computer problems lately, so she got a tech-type to come visit her misbehaving technology., She’s always to talking to people about their dogs. This techie has one. Diane told us, “He said he has a female Border Collie, and I asked her name. He said, "I named her Miles because she's such a licker, and her tongue is a mile long!"  Finally, a dog name that makes sense! ... Speaking of name, now and then we get emails from a place in Taos called Made In New Mexico. It offers special cuisine and other products from the Land of Enchantment. The latest email has to do with coyotes. Specifically, the Made folks write, “We need names for our Coyotes! We want you to name the Coyotes. One name for the big one & one name for the small one.  Each winning name will win $50 to be used either on our website or in our Taos Store!  Please send your email to: [email protected]. The coyotes are carved by renowned New Mexican folk artist Hector Rascon. You can read more HERE... THE STATE OF JOURNALISM: A lot of people fret about the pursuit of truth by today’s journalists. Some  worry about the presentation, i.e., the lack of smart editors. Anybody who ever wrote for print (cyber or otherwise) can tell you that a wise, smart, thoughtful editor is a life-saver. And that brings us to this story that was presented by Rare Media over the weekend. Rare.us is an on-line product of the Cox Media Group, famous for its newspaper products. The earlier versions of a story about a “monkey” breaking into a hotel and eating off a food tray (referred to the monkey as a “marsupial.” The sentence: “The marsupial was thirsty, so he thought it’d be okay to break into a hotel for something to drink.” It has since been changed to “The furry friend.”  Probably didn’t break in, either. Probably just monkey-walked in. We have here photos of two marsupials and a monkey. Surely I don’t need to tell you which is which. Read the original story HERE and you’ll notice there is a missing W -- the where. Why bring this up? Because, when your reporters and editors don’t know the difference between a marsupial and a monkey, how can you expect them to report accurately on Congress? And, yes, as a longtime writer for public consumption, I know a guy typing in a glass house shouldn’t throw stones at either a monkey or a marsupial. I once wrote about an 85-pound Chihuahua. I know how easy it is to err. To err is human; to forgive is marsupilian.
--- To comment, take hold of your MonkarooMouse and click below. --

TO SLEEP, PERCHANCE TO PURR

You’ve noticed, no doubt, that black and white photo of a stormy night during which the moon was making an appearance over a usually quiet neighborhood in Oak Cliff. Yeah, it’s not black and white. See the red tail light?

This was, indeed, a dark and stormy night earlier in the week. 
In our house, the animals sleep through storms sometimes.

For example, here are a couple of photos of The Senator in the spotlight of Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap.
In the one photo, he is on the arm of our Dog ‘n’ Cat Chair. You’ll notice the evidence that we don’t de-claw cats. We get cheap furniture so they can practice their shredding maneuvers. Of course, we'd get cheap furniture even if we didn't have dogs and cats. We prefer to spend our money on jewelry and the stock market -- yes, I am kidding.
We are beginning to think The Senator is an intellectual. You can see he’s right next to my desk on a TV tray I set up for him as a sleeping platform.
He’s sleeping atop a catalog of “The Great Courses.” 
I thought the Great Course was desert, but this catalog has stuff for learnin’.
The Senator thinks if he sleeps on something he owns it -- that’s the way it worked with me. Flopped down on me, started purring, went to sleep and owned me.

He also sits in my lap when I’m writing. If something I write doesn’t charm him, he bites my hands. I don’t understand his behavior. But I accept it. And I usually delete what he’s just read and I start over. As cat people know, every cat’s a critic.

[Remember, readlarrypowell publishes photos of slumbering critters as an inspiration for insomniacs and, also, as an opportunity for people to show off their dogs, cats, etc. Send you photos and info to [email protected]. We’ll be happy to publish the photos and let you brag on the household critters. Readlarrypowell.com has been publishing this weekend feature since May 14, 2005. In all that time, we've never seen a slumbering critter who wasn’t loved by the person with the camera. They why they can sleep without fear. Now. Maybe their live weren't always like that. But someone with a camera gave them a place to feel safe.]

---To comment, quietly pick up your SlumberMouse and click below. ---

The hearts that drive GAP rescue...

EDITION OF FRIDAY, MARCH 25, 2016 (PetPowellPress) -- We’ve been writing about the Euless Trinity High School GAP (Girls Awareness Program) for a long time.
These youngsters, led by teachers and encouraged by supporters, are driven by their own hearts. They achieve. And they help animals.
They’ve got a working agreement with the Euless Animal Shelter. They SAVE animals. Thanks to the animal advocate and GAP supporter Karen Lee, we learned of this very touching story when we got a notice about the GAP Walk-a-Thon on April 16 at the school.
The note read (and this is where you look at that photograph and quite possibly find yourself fighting back some tears): “Please consider a donation to GAP’s vet fund thru this Walk-a-thon fundraiser donation link.  Trinity GAP is dedicating this year’s Walk-a-Thon to slain Euless Police Officer, David  Hofer.  Officer Hofer and his fiancé Marta adopted GAP dog Mickey from fellow Officer and GAP Foster Kimberly Parker.  We are so proud to support the Euless Police Department and to honor Officer Hofer’s memory. PLEASE come out and walk with us on April 16th—all info on this link. Thank you to everyone who has donated!”
The info is on that poster to the right -- click it and it’ll grow. 
See this next photo? Here’s the explanation. “ The GAP girls visited the shelter Wednesday, as they always do, and found some perfectly awesome dogs! We also had some extra help today when some of the German exchange students came with Mrs. Munz to help. Great job guys!  Thank you all—students and teachers and other shelter volunteers!”
Now this dog Blu...yep, first time I looked at this photo without my glasses I thought, “Does that dog’s tongue have fingers?” As the French would say if they were in Euless, “C’est une trompe l'oeil, y’all.” Anyway, Blu is in temporary boarding at the Mutt Shack. (Email [email protected] to ask about adopting him.)
 Blu is #16389. His bio reads that he “is totally amazing!  He loves people, plays well with other dogs, can do yoga moves, and is just a good looking puppy!  He appears to be around 5 to 6 months old, and weighs around 40 pounds, but probably will be around 60 pounds when he is full grown.  Blu is a real ham, and loves posing for the camera.  He even let the GAP girls dress him up in a funny hat, and take his picture. ...  Blu is going to need someone who has time to walk and exercise him on a daily basis not only because he is young, but also because he is a Staffordshire Terrier.  Staffies are very intelligent, social  and active breed.”

You can see the Euless Shelter’s inventory at 1517 Westpark Way. Call 817-685-1594.

ONCE AGAIN, SOCKS
We mentioned this dog Socks earlier. He’s among a crowd on the clock at Denton’s McNatt Animal shelter. Amy Poskey, who pitches Denton’s dogs with more enthusiasm that the total of any number of Colonels promoting fried chicken, writes, “OK, everybody, I really need your help with Socks cuz this big ‘ol handsome boy has been at the shelter for 62 DAYS!!!  He was surrendered by his family on 1/23/16 because he didn’t get along with their other dog.  Well, in spite of being dumped we think Socks was trying to get back home yesterday cuz he broke away from someone when they were going through the lobby after a nice walk, ran to the front door, hit the door, and ran outside to freedom.  Thankfully, they caught him but it broke my heart to think that he was probably trying to get back to the only home he ever knew (which is close to the shelter).  Socks just wants a home so bad!!!
“The shelter staff just love this big lug!  Socks loves to play fetch and would be such a great companion for a big, burly guy or a family who understands that he is a big, strong boy!  When he first arrived at the shelter he wasn’t doing well and just didn’t connect with people, but now he has adjusted and thoroughly enjoys hanging out with his human pals!  He’s just a big goofball and you can see his eagerness to be with someone written all over his sweet face! PLEASE help me save this sweetie pie who has been overlooked and misunderstood for TWO MONTHS!  Socks is fully vetted and ready to roll.”

And that dog on the left is young Buckwheat, a genuine Earhound of the Handsomely Matched Variety.
The dog below is Jake. And he looks as if he has tears coming from his eyes. They might just be real. Jake was “recently adopted and now has been surrendered because his owner was no longer able to care for him.”
Here are contact points for the Denton shelter:   [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], and/or [email protected].
Phone 940-349-7594.


NOT ONLY DOGS GO TO DENTON
Dallas Newell is trying to find someone interested in a pair of cats at the Denton McNatt Animal Shelter. Here’s the email subject line: “URGENT! TWO PREGNANT CATS AT THE DENTON, TX ANIMAL SHELTER NEED RESCUE!” Call Dallas at 940-390-0555 or email [email protected].
Dallas’ note reads, “Reeses is a Torbie.  EXTREMELY loving.  Great cat.  #61919
Ashley is a dilute tortie.  Very shy.  She is a sweet scared cat at the shelter.  I love on her often.  If you are a 501(c)3 group, you can pull her from the shelter at no cost.  If you have pulled from us before, we have your form on file.  Otherwise we would need to have a copy of your 501(c)3 form.”


MEANWHILE IN BURNS FLAT


We mentioned these two before. They are bonded, this dog and cat, and when their human died, they wound up separated in a shelter but constantly crying and moaning and in despair until the Burns Flat rescuer Terry Lynn Fisher pulled them out of the high-kill shelter and moved them to a happier place. “I now have them in boarding at my vet.... They get to spend a lot of time together and are a comfort to each other. I really need help: boarding... a safe place for them to go.... help transporting when a place is found. ... If anyone can help in any way, it would be so appreciated.”
Email Terry Lynn at [email protected]. The bonded pair has quarters currently at Elk Creek Clinic at 1301 Airport Industrial, Elk City, OK. 73644. Call 580-225-4863.

We’ve explained this before, but for those of you who don’t know, Terry Lynn Fisher lives in and protects the animals of Burns Flat, way out in western Oklahoma, a few hours north of Wichita Falls, Texas. The roads are paved between Dallas/Fort Worth and Burns Flat now, in case you’re looking for a day trip to help animals.
CONTEMPLATIONS: My eldest grandchild, Hannah Rose, turns 15 on Sunday. We are almost the same age. Her dad Bart and his twin Bret are now about 6 years older than I am -- I’m pretty sure. I thought I would post a recent photo of Hannah Rose so people can see how beauty runs in the family. To demonstrate the genetic link, I found the best photograph ever taken of me -- it was snapped at some point during my 20 years-plus as a columnist at The Big Paper Downtown. I have no idea why I was photographed like this. But, since it’s Easter Weekend, heck, is that appropriate or what? I might have been representing the title character in a play I was doing, Bunny’s Balloon Campaign, about a rabbit who was running for president. Or, heck, maybe I was being auditioned for the poster boy position for the Relax-n-Fit line of clothing. I remember the motto: “YOU STRETCH. WE STRETCH.”  They were going to use the same motto for the Relax-n-Fit 24-hour gyms. Whatever the case, I remember telling the photographer, “You’re going to need more balloons than this to lift my bunny rabbit backside off the ground.” So, in the spirit of not embarrassing my wonderful granddaughter, “Happy Birthday, Hannah Rose!” Don’t worry about being related to a fat man in rabbit ears. I probably won’t wear them to your high school graduation.
--- To comment, contemplate sending chocolate to a hefty writer, grab your MilkChocolateMouse and click below. ---

Bunny ears on a dog; fundraisers and theatre -- it's Thursday...

EDITION OF THURSDAY, MARCH 24, 2016 (PetPowellPress) -- Quick! Name three reasons to smile.
Well, there is this photo of Butters, an 11-month-old Heeler mix (#16-5048) we spotted on the Facebook page of the Humane Society of Cedar Creek Lake. She’s a reminder that we have Good Friday this week and Easter Sunday 2 days later, so shelter and rescue hours may be disrupted by suspension of routine throughout Texas and beyond. (More on the HSCCL and Friends of the Animals at Cedar Creek Lake shortly Read on.)

So, go ahead and try to work out three more reasons to smile (Send your answers to [email protected] -- we’ll be grateful and we’ll share them). Now, as Mockingbirds chirp like they’re auditioning for The Voice  in the shrubbery outside our front door, let’s examine today’s edition.


 

TAGGED
 IN TIME

Danielle Fry issued an appeal for help with these three tiny puppies.
The note read, “Dallas Animal Services has 4 bottle baby puppies in need of transfer!
It is national puppy day, so what better way to celebrate than helping these babes get a second chance at life! We believe that they are about 6 days old and are Chihuahua mixes.”
So, almost before a puppy can lick the spit off its nose, Danielle sent a note reading “Tagged by DFW Rescue Me! Thank you, everyone!”
[LARRY ASIDE: Congratulations to DAS for getting the word out in a hurry and to the people who responded. Oh, and these were the last dogs at DAS -- wait, I could be wrong about that. This is, after all, Dallas, the most fertile city in the western hemisphere.]

So, for your calendar, remember that these puppies will become available at some point soon. Remember that you can donate for their care at dfwrescueme.org. And remember that the organization has this fundraiser coming up quicker than you can wean a puppy.]

TWO FROM THE LAKE AND A GALA
Any time we get an email from Sydney Busch of Friends of the Animals at Cedar Creek Lake, we know there’s going to be an adventure, a challenge, an opportunity or even a fundraiser for the organization that operates, so to speak, the world’s most successful spay/neuter clinic at Gun Barrel City, Texas.

So, first we’ll mention that tickets are still available ($75 each or $800 for a reserved table for 8) for the April 23 Whiskers and Wags gala (Click on the art to make it grow!) at Athens Country Club. Tickets are at the WhiskersAndWags.us site HERE. The event supports the work of both Friends of the Animals at Cedar Creek Lake and the Humane Society of Cedar Creek Lake.
THAT BRINGS US TO DOG NO. 1. Sydney forwarded a note from Brooke Fountain who is attempting to place this Beagle mix in new home. She writes, “We rescued him from being Euthanized but he is just too energetic for my little girl. Unfortunately I do not have any other dogs for him to play with and he definitely needs a family or someone that can invest time in playing with him. He is a sweetheart, not aggressive and extremely playful.” To offer this dog -- we wish we knew his name -- a home, email [email protected] or call 903-802-8585.

THAT BRINGS US TO DOG NO. 2 PLUS SOME.  The story is “this beautiful fuzzy, white, medium-sized dog (about 35 lbs) shows up at a volunteer's house and gives birth. She has weaned them. They are 8 weeks old, had first puppy shot and are ready for their new adventures...SO IS THE MOTHER - without puppies! There are 5 males. $10 adoption fee.” (Yep, all 5 take after Mom in the coat department.)
You can get mom for $10, too, but she comes with free spay surgery. Call the dogs’ foster at 903-345-6354 or contact Sydney at 903-451-4701 or email [email protected].
CONTEMPLATIONS: The SPCA of Texas is a nice organization with really nice people and that explains this passage in the latest press release: “The SPCA of Texas would like to remind the public that rabbits, chicks and ducklings do not make good gifts. Pet ownership is not something to be entered into lightly, and it is important that the entire family make the decision to commit to caring for a pet.” We’re not that nice here at Readlarrypowell.com. So, hey, idiots, don’t spend money on animals as gifts at a time in the year when they have to compete with school, testing, holidays and vacations just to survive. Many of them won’t and it’s on your head. It’ll come up when they read the indictment when the roll is called up yonder. ... Thirty years of comedy? Martha and I have only been married 24 1/2 years. But that has nothing to do with the latest RadioVision production of Pegasus Theater. This is it, The Frequency of Death, opening Friday and running through April 3 at the Bath House Cultural Center in Dallas and then moving to the Eisemann Center in Richardson for one show on April 4. RadioVision is the Pegasus’ theater a play as if it were an old-time radio show. (Usually Pegasus is working up special “Living Black & White” productions on the live stage.) Whatever the venue, Kurt Kleinmann’s written words and acting are, indeed, comedy. See more and get tickets HERE. These are the RadioVizion players: Ben Bryant, Chad Cline, Gordon Fox, Joel Frapart, John Harvey, Kurt Kleinmann, Reis Myers McCormick, Alex Moore, Jonah Munroe, Scott Nixon, Maxim Overton, Leslie Patrick, Marc Rouse, and Rachel Rouse. Directing the RadioVizion production is Raymond Banda. Here’s the plot: The detective and want-to-be actor Harry Hunsacker and friends Nigel Grouse and Lt. Foster “are guest panelists on a radio program when the evening suddenly goes awry. Dr. Big, the mind-bending villain from All Dressed Up and No Place To Die!, has returned and he's out for revenge! Can Harry stop him before the evening blows up in their faces --- literally!” ... A closing thought from Jean Paul Sartre, "Everything has been figured out, except how to live. " He was a French writer/philosopher/etc. who lived from June 21, 1905, until Aril 15, 1980. He saw two World Wars, manned flight, the atomic bomb, radio’s birth as a commercial entity, television’s invention and growth, Watergate, man on the moon and the Chicago Cubs win TWO World Series: (1907 and 1908), but one thing was still left “un-figured out”: How to get a World Series win for the Texas Rangers.
--- To comment, dig in at the plate, grab your LouisevilleSluggerMouse and swing away below. ---

Litters and big lugs -- all of 'em need homes...

EDITION OF MARCH 23, 2016 (PetPowellPress) --- Let’s just dive right into our midweek report as if the world were a sane place.
Evidence is clear that it is not.
So, we’ll just work around it today.
Keep reading and you’ll encounter the deaf Boxer Achilles, a dog who needs a loving home. But don’t they all?



SOCKS -- IS TIME UP?
“I’m getting very worried about Socks cuz the shelter is filling up again and Socks has been there a VERY LONG TIME!” Amy Poskey wrote in an email urging rescuers and adoptors to help empty Denton’s McNatt Animal Shelter before the needle gets called into action.

Socks (his PetFinder LINK IS HERE is a 2-to-5 year old Pittie/Mastiff mix. Lots of muscles. Lots of handsome.
Amy writes, “I just love those white-tipped toes, that white tuxedo chest, and that big ‘ol loveable blockhead made for kissing!”
He’s 97 pounds of an only-dog attitude. And he’s not happy with shelter life. But he is “a big ol’ goofball who would love a forever home of his own.”
The shelter contact points are these: Phone 940-349-7594 and email  [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], and/or [email protected]. The shelter is at 3717 N. Elm in Denton.
 PUPPIES? IN THE SPRING? IN TEXAS?
AND MOM HAS BEEN A COUNTRY STRAY?

Heather Harrison forwarded this note: “Momma Lab mix w/6 (4wk old) pups is in need of a reputable rescue.
"Momma was has been a stray in the country her whole life.   She is scared of people but was able to be caught.  She has had far too many litters!!   Health is questionable.  
"She is scared but coming around more daily.   Puppies are fat & healthy! The family is in a very temp foster home.   They are needing rescue ASAP!”
 To offer to help, email [email protected]

MORE PUPPIES? IN THE SPRING? IN TEXAS?
YES. OF COURSE.
These pups are in Bowie, Texas, according to a forwarded note. That’s about an hour northwest of Fort Worth on 287. The note that came with the photo reads, “Please help. They don’t get much exposure in Bowie. They don’t have much time there before they get euthanized."
The mom of these two-week-old pups may weigh 30 pounds.
The contact point? Email [email protected] or call 940-841-1425.

NOW, WE COME TO ACHILLES

The actions of humans frequently make life uncertain for the most wonderful of dogs.
For evidence of “wonderfulness,” I cite this photo of the big dog and his pal watching television.

Desiree, the Fort Worth person who has Achilles, contacted Dinesha Schmidt of A Different Breed in an attempt to find someone loving and responsible to take over the care of this dog.
I got in touch with Desiree and asked reporter questions, such as, “Can you tell me about the dog and why is such a wonderful dog suddenly losing his home?”

Bless her heart, she replied, “Yes, of course, you may write about him. He is deaf and likes to chew wood that's about the only thing -- but he only does that if he isn't given enough exercise. 

“My husband left myself and our kids. I may have to move out of the house due to financial reasons. He is a really good dog I just am trying to prepare for the future with the kids. Thank you!” (To help place Achilles, email [email protected] or call 817-980-6906.)

How did Achilles wind up with her family. “He was not from a shelter that I know of,” she says. “Another family had him for about a month but I don't believe they understood the responsibility of having a puppy.”

He’s not quite a year old, weighs about 50 pounds and is an athletic dog who enjoys lots of exercise. He’s learning to walk on a leash.

“Don’t let his deafness fool you,” Desiree wrote. “This boy is smart and knows a total of one hand gesture to sit with more that he is working on. This brainy beefcake is a lot of dog so the handler who is physically strong -- also fair and consistent will be best suited for Achilles. Canine socialization is improving every day ...  He is still getting used to his crate (his crate will be re-homed with him) and although he gets super excited around babies, toddlers and younger children he would not be suited to a home with them.

“One of his favorite things in the world is a piece of ice from your freezer! He also loves playing tug of war and loves to win. One thing Achilles will need when he’s left alone is some chew toys. This doggy Brainiac tends to get bored without his humans and until he figures out how to channel surf or shop on-line it would be beneficial to provide him with entertainment in the form of chew toys to keep him occupied.”
CONTEMPLATIONS: Guacamole or Rotel cheese dip? Sorry didn’t mean to set off cravings. ... Biscuits or bagels? Dang. There I go again setting off cravings. ... This next note definitely won’t set off cravings. Readlarrypowell.com loves cats. We love all animals, though it’ll be a cold day in August before we share the TV tray with the hopeful stare of a snake or an eel. And, of course, there is no movement urging that snakes and eels be spayed and neutered, though, of course, I’d chip in on the Neuter the Snakes Fund. If you love cats, and you have cats that are still doing what comes naturally, here are some opportunities for cut-rate cat fixin’. We have more than enough kittens already around here. Not that this makes a point, but that pair of photos off the adoption page at www.dallasanimalservices.org indicates the city has had so many cats that it may be running out of names. To help cure that situation, see the poster below.


--- To comment, think positive thoughts about the negative people who don’t spay and neuter, grab your Snip’emMouse and clip, er, click below. ---

Some saved, some waiting. And, good grief. Not again!

EDITION OF TUESDAY, MARCH 22, 2016 (PetPowellPress) -- Here we go with a report that has happy news, opportunities for happiness and one really disgusting development in Dallas, Our Jerks Are Bigger Than Anyone’s, Texas.
FOLLOWING SKIP’S STORY

We began mentioning Skip when Amy Poskey was desperately trying to find a way out of the Denton shelter for the terrified dog. You may recall Amy’s description of how Skip “hid” in the corner and shook uncontrollably.

Adopted once, returned because he was “too fearful,” now, he’s in the custody of Muttley Farms Rescue in Valley View. 
 And Skip’s been renamed Duncan.
You see his before and his after photos here.

Amy says Renee Lundgren of Muttley Farms reports “that Duncan was already talking to her and told her he loves her two Poodles!  Bless his sweet little heart, he’s just happy to be outta that scary shelter and into a loving home with Renee and her pack!.”

You can donate to Muttley Farms Rescue at 5256 CR 336, Valley View, TX  76272.  

A SITUATION IN COMMERCE


Judyann Master tipped us to this development regarding people who are upset with the City of Commerce Animal Shelter. 
According to the Facebook page, “It started out as a remembrance page for the victims of Commerce Animal Shelter, but has turned into so much more. Click HERE to explore the situation.


MEANWHILE AT LANCASTER

The Furbabies of Lancaster Facebook page posted a sincere request Monday.
It read: “EMERGENCY!! The shelter is FULL there need to be AT LEAST FOUR ADOPTIONS TODAY TO SAVE LIVES!!! The URGENT dogs need out this week, let's find these sweet pups homes!! You MUST SHARE to save lives!! And Lilliana NEEDS RESCUE --she has foster and $160 in pledges. Please pledge if you can to attract rescue!!”
Here’s the Facebook LINK and here are some photos -- we’ve posted Lilliana before. Pregnant was the previous report.



CONTEMPLATIONS: People are an interesting bunch. Some work hard to make things better. Others are just innocent jerks until proven guilty.
“Jerks” isn’t a strong enough word, but, I’m trying to behave myself.

Contemplate this guy Champ. Can’t use his back legs. Why? Here’s a hint: He was “evidence” in a Denton Country animal cruelty case.
We got his story weeks ago from Amy Poskey who monitors things in Denton’s McNatt Animal Shelter. She was promoting Champ to anybody she could find to try to get a break for him. And there was an appeal for someone to fit him for a set of wheels.
You may remember his picture, being held by a shelter worker. Here’s the latest photograph. Amy writes, “Champ has left the building and I just had to share a picture of our little angel  with his new wheelchair!  He is with his awesome foster mom now with Legacy Humane Society!  WOOOHOOOOOO!!!! Donations can be made online by clicking on the link below.  No amount is too small.  Thank you!  Amy.” Here is that LINK.
 
Contemplate this situation. A guy in Dallas has been charged with animal cruelty after his dog -- looks like a puppy -- was found beaten and with a crushed skull, according to the story by my former colleague (and resolute dogfan) Chris Siron of The Big Paper Downtown. I know we’re not supposed to decide someone is guilty without a trial, but, geez, there’s nobody else in the apartment and the dog is beaten and its skull is crushed. I’ve been around a few dogs in my lifetime and I’ve never seen one beat itself to death and crush its own skull. Read that story HERE.
And as long as you’re in the mood to get good and mad about things, click HERE  and you can read the opinion piece we published last Friday. We declared Dallas has enough “Faces of Cruelty.” And, son of a gun, if we don’t have another one. Dear Prosecutor, Do your very best in honor of this dog and animals to come and children and wives and others who get in the way of people who willingly exhibit horrifying behavior. Sincerely, Larry Powell.
--- To comment, click below and, for crying out loud, for the sake of the weak and the fearful, get mad and stay mad. Prosecute and jail. ---