ReadLarryPowell.com

A TUESDAY ROUND UP AND A SLOGAN FOR DALLAS

EDITION OF TUESDAY, AUGUST 2, 2017 [PetPowellPress] -- We have interesting updates today. This area of North Texas is never without the interesting animal story. Sometimes these tales have an element of kindness and goodness that makes rescuers and advocates happy that they’ve chosen to give their energy to the cause.
DINKY’S CHALLENGE
Kimberly Jones, the noted rescuer/advocate who has been concerned about her boy Dinky, sent a mid-afternoon note Monday urging people to hold off on donating to her dog’s medical cause. Why? “An amazing foundation reached out to me and offered to assist with Dinky’s bill, so I am asking everyone to halt donations to the Youcaring account. I cannot thank everyone enough. The generosity and love I have felt has been so heartwarming and, literally, Dinky’s life was saved.”
We’ll keep you in the loop on Dinky and give you info about the "amazing foundation," too. That's Dinky getting a tidy-up after some “leakage” and, as you can see, he prefers to get satellite signals in the “Crystal-Clear Model” of the Elizabethan Collar. 
He had a bit of a set back incision-wise because -- and I’ll phrase this for a family readership -- he began bleeding “down there” when Kimberly visited him Monday. And why is that? Remember, he has two incisions in what the Brits might call a large part of his “Full Monty.” That part of his body reacts when he gets excited, the vet explained, so the blood vessels in the area begin to bleed again. Nevertheless, Dinky, now without those painful bladder and urethra stones, may get to come home on Wednesday.
A SMALL EMERGENCY
OR A LARGE EMERGENCY?
While the Chihuahua is a small dog, when they travel in “bulk,” it’s a large emergency. On Monday, small shelter specialist Laura Macias, travelin’ dog specialist Tawana Couch of the Society for Companion Animals and animal rescuer writer Leighann Hayden launched a rescue mission. Because of a seizure cake, the Farmers Branch Animal Shelter had sudden custody of 17 Chihuahuas. (We’re just posting a few of their photos. Based on readlarrypowell.com’s experience with Chihuahuas, 17 is one giant collection of canine affection!)
Laura reported late Monday that 9 of the dogs have been rescued. So if you want to get into rescuing the rest of them, email Laura at [email protected] and copy it to [email protected]. Call or text Laura at 214-949-2726.
These Chihuahuas are described as “sweet little companion dogs.”
[LARRY ASIDE: We had the wonderful fawn-coated Belle Star Carmelita del Vera Cruz, aka Vera, and the black-and-tan Rosie for more than a decade and a half. They were, indeed, “sweet little companion dogs” thought Vera led the traditional afternoon charge to the living room picture window to keep the letter carrier on his or her toes. And we can report that not once during Rosie’s lifespan did a delivery person of any kind come into the house through the living room picture window. Give a little dog a chance to own your heart.]
A SAM VIDEO UPDATE
Click HERE to see a video update of Sam the Starving Dog who was saved by the Dallas Dogrrr folks. Don’t want to spoil anything but the scrawny rascal sure can wag his tail!
Come on back after you watch him, because we have more animals to help.

HYPNOTIC CHIP...

We got this note early Monday from Tomi Ortiz, our eyes-on-Lancaster tipster. It was someone else’s eyes she was writing about: Chip’s. He was on the brink at the Lancaster shelter. Before we could write about him, he found a better brink.
The Furbabies of Lancaster Facebook Page posted this photo of Chip enjoying his new home.

Don’t fret, Lancaster still has plenty of critters such as the pups described in this pararaph: 
“Dixie IS ALREADY MICROCHIPPED AND SPAYED AND UTD ON VACCINATIONS!! Sweet, 1-2 years old, white, Pit/boxer mix. 50 lbs. Duke LOVES TO RUN!! Can he be your running buddy? about 1 yr, male, intact, pit mix, sweet. Roxy is a sweet girl very young she's about a-year-old; she's good on a leash; she's a very calm Shepherd mix about 30 to 35 pounds.”

These and more in the Lancaster Animal Shelter at 609 E. Main St., just south of I-20 in the city that abuts southern Dallas and the interstate.
CONTEMPLATIONS: The City of Dallas is going to host a “Meet the Candidates For Director of Animal Care Services”  event Thursday, August 3,  at the Dallas Public Library -- here’s the LINK to reserve a spot. Good opportunity to ask questions about motivations, philosophies and whether the candidates need a free dog or free cat -- you know, a welcoming gift. Just kidding. They probably already have access. FYI: I’m not going to say that Dallas Animal Services is running low on names, but that big cat (A0950798) and the smaller cat (A1000122) are both named Lucky. If you think “Lucky” is an appropriate name for a DAS critter, check out the euthanasia figures on Sunday’s shelter report card. Click on it to blow it up big enough to read. And go to dallasanimalservices.org to look at the faces of the beautiful dogs and cats on the clock in Dallas.

Heartbreaking. ... As a driver on freeways and residential streets, have you ever seen so many unraveled tires decorating the freeways and have you ever seen so many car bumper assemblies shoved to the shoulder of streets and highways? Is this a manufacturing problem? Combined, these pieces of trash are starting to outnumber discarded fast food bags. ... Speaking of which, Dallas City Councilman Dwaine Caraway, who once gave a Key to the City to notorious, felonious dog-fighting, dog-killing quarterback Michael Vick, is now trying to get people to quit throwing trash out of their cars at the ends of freeway ramps, next to stop signs, etc. If he can turn the litterers around in this town, maybe we should engage him as the spokesman for spay/neuter campaigns. “Councilman Caraway says: FIX THE DOG, FIX THE CAT, FIX DALLAS.”
No charge for that slogan, unless the city’s willing to really pay some big bucks, as if I were from an advertising company in New York or some other important place where the really giant intellects gather to overcharge starry-eyed, coastal-craving people in flyover states.
--- TO COMMENT, GRIP YOUR SAGE-o-TEXASMOUSE AND CLICK CLEVERLY BELOW ---

HELPING DINKY; PLACING CATS; MADDY WAITS & MOVIE CHILLS

EDITION OF MONDAY, JULY 31, 2017 (PetPowellPress) Anybody who knows anything knows that animals and their humans share an emotional heartbeat.
Perhaps the current drama involving Kimberly Jones and her pal, Dinky, is an example of this shared heartbeat. First, some history -- many of you will relate to this.
 That’s the earliest photo of Dinky. And it has this explanation: “He was in AAS (Arlington Animal Shelter) on the euth list in 2010.”

Six years ago, that was Dinky. Kimberly explains, “I saw him on the euth list email and he was only 7 weeks old. I wrote to the shelter and asked them if he had any interest and they said ZERO. I could not let him die so I said I would foster him if a group could take him. They put out a plea and I also asked a friend if their group would tag and pull him because I wanted to save him and I would foster. My friend’s group pulled him and he came straight to my house. Within days he broke with parvo. After being hospitalized (I raised donations to pay for his treatment) I nursed him back to health and could not bear to let him go after that. He has been mine ever since. A parvo survivor. I originally named him Dexter but while he was sick he was so small and dinky so he had many nicknames all involving ‘Dinky’ and ‘Dinks’ and it became the only name he would respond to lol.
“He has an entire album following his journey from shelter through parvo in my albums on my facebook page. His shelter pic is there and its pathetic. He was teeny and hairless. I love him.”

NOW, Dinky and his human are facing another challenge. You see the odd photos in this edition. Stones. Big ones. Struck in Dinky’s urethra. Surgery was done a week ago when the situation became life-threatening -- surgery was necessary because the spiky stones wouldn’t flush out. X-rays revealed stones in the poor boys bladder and “also about 8 stones in the urethra.” The vet said that in in addition to the painful, huge stones in Dinky’s urethra, he had “100s of small ones in his bladder.” The vet describe it as “like a sandpit, there were so many.”

The surgery required two incisions in his penis and one in his bladder.
 This is where many of you animal fans can absolutely relate: The surgery was expensive. And, Kimberly confessed, all this unexpected vet care is “maxing out my credit cards.”


But there’s more: At 6 a.m. Saturday when Dinky went out to “do his business,” blood began to flow dramatically from one of his incisions. ”He is now hospitalized at our regular vet (who performed his surgery) until Monday. Dinky's body has had so much trauma... He had such a large incision in his bladder (big enough for the vet’s hand to fit all the way inside), the 2 incisions in his urethra (penis) and the stones that were so barby and spiky that he had tons of bleeding and blood and blood clots. He is going to take a long time to heal... I visited him before the clinic closed today and he is high on pain killers and happy. I feel good knowing if there is an emergency this weekend with him, he is right where he needs to be. However, this weekend stay is adding to his already huge vet bill.”
Here is the youcaring LINK and here is Kimberly’s paypal link: [email protected]

[LARRY NOTE: Lots of people need help paying for vet care. I mentioned Kimberly Jones’ personal situation because she is an example of someone who has spent money on animals that belonged to other people -- animals that were rescued off the streets and out of lousy situations and now she’s in a bit of a spot. Besides, no animal should suffer because a human can’t pay a bill. Their lives are important, too. Anyone know of a non-profit that helps with these situations? We’ll monitor Dinky as he improves. Over the years I have gotten scores and scores of notes from Kimberly Jones about desperate situations involving unwanted or neglected dogs. This one is different. This is her boy Dinky.]
A CAT CRISIS OF PERSONAL PROPORTIONS

The devoted animal advocate Karen Lee of barkleyworld.com forwarded Donna Bradshaw’s appeal for cat help to us. Donna was forwarding a note from her “very good friend,” Destiny Tatum, daughter of “the late rescue hero Rhonda Tatum.”
Destiny distributed a six-part appeal [We've boiled it down!] on behalf of more than a dozen cats she and her mom rescued, including 12 kittens in a litter that had been on the brink of death.”

Readlarrypowell.com is cutting straight to the chase here: Destiny is leaving August 7 to pursue law school and has no one to take care of the cats. This is a photo of one of them, Ein, named after Einstein. Below, the photo is of Boy and a canine friend. And at the end, there’s a collection of snapshots of many of the cats who need a safe place to land.
Bless here heart, Destiny knew the pressure of placing the cats already but, as you may understand, she was still reeling over her mom’s death. She writes, “So I just kept putting it off and putting it off and putting it off, all the while feeling the weight of that grief and guilt.
“But here I am, having accepted a full scholarship offer to Texas Tech University Law School and even now owning a house in Lubbock, in preparation to begin classes soon. It took purchasing the house to finally serve as the wakeup call that time had run out.
“On August 7, I leave North Texas and most of my cats have nowhere to live. 
“Rescue organizations are full, there are not enough fosters to go around, kitten season is upon us, and shelters are so overcrowded that animals are being put to sleep. ... I know I screwed up. You’re free to tell me that all you want. I deserve it. I made the biggest mistake of my life and I’m regretting it every day and will live with this regret every day moving forward. But please don’t let my cats suffer because I did the wrong thing. Please help them.”
The phone number is 214-558-3377. Email [email protected]. See her on Facebook HERE. That is where you can see the entire gallery of cats and you’ll realize right away that they are not hungry, they are socialized and they are going to be great additions to a home.

MADDY’S STILL LOOKING FOR A HOME


Back in early June we mentioned this girl Maddy. She’s a 2-year-old Border Collie/Aussie Shepherd mix who needs a place to go -- well, not “to go” anymore, just a place to live. She’s solved that other problem. She had been experiencing “house-training” problems and that was aggravating the situation. But Chris Lynn reports, “We have not had any urination in the house issues for over a month but we do need to find her a new home.”
Call 214-551-7051 or email [email protected].
Chris says, “She is very loving and well-trained, but our life is too hectic and we are not giving her the quality of life she deserves.”


[LARRY ASIDE: Anybody know of a rescue group that takes Border Collie/Aussie mixes? We’ve had Border Collies and we’ve had Aussies come through the house, but never a mix. And, as you know, readlarrypowell.com is not a reliable judge of the nuances of breeds -- we just see them as individual critters who need a place to bunk, good meals and all the treats we can toss their way. Someone is needed to give Maddy a chance.]
CONTEMPLATIONS: As we begin this segment, the mood is one of "we hope we've helped these animals and their humans" and is there something entertaining to focus on? Yep, we’ll just focus on movies in this edition’s Contemplations. Not enough time to see all movies. Though there are films I’ve watched and wished I hadn’t made time to see. No doubt you have a list, too. I used to be able to find something in every film that made it worth the time of my life I was burning up -- not any longer. Probably because I’m so darned sophisticated that I no longer see four-letter words as clever punchlines, not that I’m criticizing Bad Santa 2 as a film that didn’t need to be made. Watched 1954's Them! on Saturday -- ants made giant as the result of atomic bomb experiments. ... Scariest film of my childhood? Not of This Earth -- a 1957 director Roger Corman movie about a space alien trying to help his race survive by preparing earthmen for sacrifice. ... Here’s a movie idea: “Insomniacs vs. The Zombies of Big D.” Historical note: It could happen. The great Dallas radio man Gordon McLendon (inventor of the Top 40 concept), actor James Best (later of The Dukes of Hazzard) and Ken Curtis (the big band singer most famous for playing Festus on Gunsmoke), teamed in 1959 to create The
Killer Shrews, filmed in and around Dallas and at Lake Dallas. Know what they used as the Killer Shrews? Costumed Dogs and creative photography -- just genuine movie magic!  Here’s the TRAILER .
--- TO COMMENT, GRIP YOUR EERIEMOUSE AND TYPE SCARILY BELOW ---

A GOLDENDOODLE AND HIS ADMIRER

“My sweet little Murphy sleeping :)”


Awwwwww. Can’t you just see the affection gently flowing around in that heartfelt quote from this pup’s human!
Feel free to applaud our weekend presentation of Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap because of the wonderful face in this introductory photo. Probably didn’t even have to coach anybody to go “Awwwwww.”
That wonderful sleeper is Murf, an 8-month-old Goldendoodle whose human is Rachel Vogel. "I got him at six-weeks-old," she says. They make their home in the Metrodogplex and Murf took about a split-second to charm his way into her heart. He had her at "puppy breath," know what I mean?
We had some questions for Rachel:

Is Murf named for anyone?
 “My grandfather's dog that he had when I lived with him as a little girl. He was a sweet little white mutt and I wanted to use the name to remind myself of that pup and my Grandpa (who passed away years ago).  I also love nicknames and wanted one that had a decent short version, like Murf. And I am supposedly half-Irish, so I wanted an Irish name for my pup."
How did you pick this particular combination of breeds, the Golden Retriever and the Poodle?
“Besides my grandpa’s dogs, my family mostly had Lab mutts. So, I wanted a medium-to-large-size dog. I was tempted to get one [a Lab mutt], but I have terrible allergies and decided to opt for a hypoallergenic and non-shedding dog. However, my pup must be defective -- he sheds and some people are allergic to him. I tell him all the time I am returning him, but I think he knows I would never do that to him, so it doesn’t faze him.”

What are his best habits, his worst habits?
“Best habits – every time I come home he greets me at the door and usually if I get down to pet him he will just rest his head in my arms to be petted or hugged. He also likes to sleep on my legs on the couch, which is adorable. He hasn’t met a stranger, which is also a bit of a worst habit because he thinks everyone should want to pet him as they walk by and he tries to wait for them to walk up to him -- whether they are going to pet him or not. He also refuses to walk if he sees a dog or person he wants to say ‘Hi’ to when we are out on a walk. (worst habit – and also my fault for not training him better.) 
“
Good habits – he is super playful and just a bit weird. He has to pick up every stick he sees on a walk and will carry it with him for as long as he can. He’s 60 pounds and still thinks he is a lap dog.”
What has he meant to your life? Change of your own habits? Scheduled "puppy" breaks?
“He has added joy to it.
“You can tell how much a dog loves you. He follows me around throughout the house (which isn’t that big) so he can be around me. He is such a character that he makes me laugh at the weird things he does. Like playing soccer with a tennis ball and kicking it under the couch or entertainment center and looking at me so he can make sure I’ll go get it for him (basically teaching me fetch). It was definitely tiring at first and has changed my own habits and schedule. I get up earlier to walk him. I actually go home for lunch and take a lunch break (instead of working through lunch) to make sure he gets let out. I work late hours and have to either run home before an event or see if my friends in the apartment complex can let him out for me. Which in turn has led me to get closer to some of these friends and show how kind they can be. 

“I always have to think about how long I have been gone now and can’t just run errands all day. But it also gives me an excuse to be home and not feel like I need to go out. I have met more people in Dallas  - taking him to dog parks and places like Mutts.”
Do you watch TV together?
“Yep! He will sit on the couch with me and usually bring one of his stuffed animals and try and play tug of war or something. If he is tired he usually sits and puts his head on my legs and naps.”


Rachel is Vice President of Programs at the World Affairs Council of Dallas/Fort Worth. She’s usually working with authors, dignitaries and other notables. Readlarrypowell.com is not completely certain, but we believe Murf may have a degree in diplomacy. We’ve seen him work a crowd into joyous smiles.
[REMEMBER, SEND US photos and info about your sleeping dog, napping cat or slumbering beast of any kind -- we’re proud to post them in our long-running Readlarrypowell.com feature Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. Why? "Because there is joy in hearts when people see animals that are loved and animals that love back. And, the fact that animals can nod off in this nutty world gives hope to the insomniacs fret about the future and walk the night around the world. "Not that we’d know anything about that sort of behavior," yawned the writer of canine and feline lore.]
--- TO COMMENT, GRIP YOUR DROWSYMOUSE AND CLICK GENTLY BELOW. ---

AH, SAM MAY BE HEALING & OTHER STORIES...

EDITION OF FRIDAY, JULY 28, 2017 [PetPowell
Press] We have some news about Sam, the starving dog we featured in Thursday's edition. Our sources are not just DallasDogrrr’s Facebook Page, but the Vet Ranch rescue veterinarian who is caring for Sam, Dr. Karri McCreary. 

She posted this note: “I'm so lucky to have this sweet boy in my care. Sam was rushed to me as an emergency this evening. He has been through so much and still gives kisses and cuddles. He's only about 10 months old but looks much older. He is starved, covered in fleas, infested with parasites and anemic. I can't wait to see his transformation!”

The transformation has, of course, begun. (We're posting some photos from Thursday's edition tht show his mournful face -- before Dr. Karri began to reaquaint him heartfelt human care.) If you can click that photo on the upper right and get it to expand you'll see that Sam weighed in at around 19 pounds. Clearly he is not supposed to just weigh 19 pounds.
The Dallas Dogrrr Facebook site carried this note Thursday: “First of all, thank you ALL for your resounding and strong voice in supporting Sam. After his initially poor assessment late yesterday, we reached out to our miracle workers at Vet Ranch to see if they would help us out with Sam. Without hesitation, Dr. Karri asked when we could get him there.

“We rushed him there last night and confirmed just how fragile a state Sam was in. Geez, he hasn't even lost his baby canines yet!? At maybe ten months old, Sam is riddled with fleas, infested with parasites, and is anemic and dehydrated. More results from his blood panel will be available soon.
“Fast forward to this morning's report and we know he ate well, slept REALLY well, and is wagging his tail at the sight of Dr. Karri. We know he has a long road to recovery, and it will be slow and graduated. But, we're definitely more comfortable with him now in the hands of our vet partners of the Abandoned Pet Project and Vet Ranch
.“ Donations that came through our site will be forwarded to the Abandoned Pet Project. If you would like to contribute and help Sam, please click on the link below:
abandonedpetproject.org/main_21/donate/."
[LARRY COMMENTARY ASIDE: Whew! You oughta go to the Dallas Dogrrr Facebook page and read the comments abut the Sam situation -- a situation I hope will soon graduate to felony abuse case. I’ll bet we could sell out of our warehoused supply of official Readlarrypowell.com Two-by-Fours of Enlightenment to the commenters. For example there’s this one and it is a kind one compared to some: “I just want the names of these monsters. I want them prosecuted. I want their employers and neighbors to know . And I want to legally get any asset or pay garnishment to pay every cent of this dog's medical and support care for his natural life. I too am so happy he made it one more night but I know he's guarded. I am done with this abuse that goes unaccounted for.” And, yes, we all ought to be fed up with letting the abusers skate. And we should remember that Sam is a dog that people found before he could die of abuse and neglect and human ignorance. Bless the dogs and cats we never learn about -- keep them save and prosecute the people who harm them.]
UPDATE ON TORNADO SADY
Still looking for a home for Sady, the 29-pound dog who lived through the tornadoes in Canton and lost her family while doing it. Family never showed up to claim her. She needs a home and we’re adding a number to the contacts: 903-880-2645 or 903-288-8365. Email [email protected]. She was a favorite Tuesday at the Friends of the Animals at Cedar Creek Lake Spay/Neuter Clinic, the world’s most successful spay/neuter clinic at Gun Barrel City, Texas.
WHEN CATS AND DOGS NEED HOMES

We got this tip from the Take Me Home Pet Rescue people who are, as is their wondrous style, trying to help cats and dogs at the same time.

This reminder is specifically for this great outfit (bless the hearts and bankrolls of Take Me Home Pet Recue!). Remember, each weekend there are dozens -- maybe scores -- of rescue groups trying to help dogs and cats find homes in the Metrosprawl. Tell your critterless friends -- build up a positive buzz for the benefits of having a dog and/or cat around the house. What do they do? They make the size of your heart grow in a very positive way.

CONTEMPLATIONS: As someone who has been writing animal stories for more than a half-century, it is the sorriness of humans that sticks in my craw. I think I have a craw -- was absent two or three days in 10th grade biology. Anyway, I'm kind of sick of the mean humans, the ignorant humans and the don’t-care humans -- how do you change them? Legally, I mean. Readlarrypowell.com wants to go on record with this heartfelt declaration: I love my dogs and my cats and when I see their chubby little countenances, I ache for dogs treated like Sam was treated and cats that are “run off” by their humans. This emotional mix of disgust and despair over the behavior of my own species fuels my typing in an attempt to get more eyes to see animals that need help. And, now and then, I daydream of landing some crisp, flesh-popping slaps across the faces of the rotten SOBs who make animals’ lives miserable. Pardon my entirely accurate French. ... I once rescued a dog so thin you could almost hold her up to the light and see through her. Peaches was her name.  That's her on the left -- both photos, a year apart. She wound up being in a dogs-and-inmates program and was later adopted by a prison guard. She'd squeezed onto our front porch through the bars on the gate so she could dine on the feral cat buffet. I thought she might die on the way to the vet’s. Humans and their ignorance -- sheesh. God bless Peaches and her human. ... Our cat, The Senator, now a bit chubby, was a famished, wander-up older fellow. He didn’t escape someone. He was someone’s housecat. I suspect they “set him free.” You know what? Their loss. He’s a damned good friend. That's The Senator (right) showing off his dance moves -- he was thin in those days.  And on the left, you see that The Senator has discovered the pleasures of regular dining and having a household staff to tend to him. Whoever broke his heart...well, may you be changed and live with guilt that you turn into energy to help animals. I really can’t believe that now and then I show optimism. I’ve been in the news and writing business my entire since the age of 16 -- pessimism about human behavior is my natural state. When I get optimistic, I start to daydream about winning Lotto Texas and that’s about as likely as me passing the audition to high-kick for the Radio City Music Hall Rockettes this Christmas.
--- TO COMMENT, GRIP YOUR FISHNETMOUSE AND HIGHCLICK BELOW. ---

AH, SAM MAY BE HEALING & OTHER STORIES...

EDITION OF FRIDAY, JULY 28, 2017 [PetPowell
Press] We have some news about Sam, the starving dog we featured in Thursday's edition. Our sources are not just DallasDogrrr’s Facebook Page, but the Vet Ranch rescue veterinarian who is caring for Sam, Dr. Karri McCreary. 

She posted this note: “I'm so lucky to have this sweet boy in my care. Sam was rushed to me as an emergency this evening. He has been through so much and still gives kisses and cuddles. He's only about 10 months old but looks much older. He is starved, covered in fleas, infested with parasites and anemic. I can't wait to see his transformation!”

The transformation has, of course, begun. (We're posting some photos from Thursday's edition tht show his mournful face -- before Dr. Karri began to reaquaint him heartfelt human care.) If you can click that photo on the upper right and get it to expand you'll see that Sam weighed in at around 19 pounds. Clearly he is not supposed to just weigh 19 pounds.
The Dallas Dogrrr Facebook site carried this note Thursday: “First of all, thank you ALL for your resounding and strong voice in supporting Sam. After his initially poor assessment late yesterday, we reached out to our miracle workers at Vet Ranch to see if they would help us out with Sam. Without hesitation, Dr. Karri asked when we could get him there.

“We rushed him there last night and confirmed just how fragile a state Sam was in. Geez, he hasn't even lost his baby canines yet!? At maybe ten months old, Sam is riddled with fleas, infested with parasites, and is anemic and dehydrated. More results from his blood panel will be available soon.
“Fast forward to this morning's report and we know he ate well, slept REALLY well, and is wagging his tail at the sight of Dr. Karri. We know he has a long road to recovery, and it will be slow and graduated. But, we're definitely more comfortable with him now in the hands of our vet partners of the Abandoned Pet Project and Vet Ranch
.“ Donations that came through our site will be forwarded to the Abandoned Pet Project. If you would like to contribute and help Sam, please click on the link below:
abandonedpetproject.org/main_21/donate/."
[LARRY COMMENTARY ASIDE: Whew! You oughta go to the Dallas Dogrrr Facebook page and read the comments abut the Sam situation -- a situation I hope will soon graduate to felony abuse case. I’ll bet we could sell out of our warehoused supply of official Readlarrypowell.com Two-by-Fours of Enlightenment to the commenters. For example there’s this one and it is a kind one compared to some: “I just want the names of these monsters. I want them prosecuted. I want their employers and neighbors to know . And I want to legally get any asset or pay garnishment to pay every cent of this dog's medical and support care for his natural life. I too am so happy he made it one more night but I know he's guarded. I am done with this abuse that goes unaccounted for.” And, yes, we all ought to be fed up with letting the abusers skate. And we should remember that Sam is a dog that people found before he could die of abuse and neglect and human ignorance. Bless the dogs and cats we never learn about -- keep them save and prosecute the people who harm them.]
UPDATE ON TORNADO SADY
Still looking for a home for Sady, the 29-pound dog who lived through the tornadoes in Canton and lost her family while doing it. Family never showed up to claim her. She needs a home and we’re adding a number to the contacts: 903-880-2645 or 903-288-8365. Email [email protected]. She was a favorite Tuesday at the Friends of the Animals at Cedar Creek Lake Spay/Neuter Clinic, the world’s most successful spay/neuter clinic at Gun Barrel City, Texas.
WHEN CATS AND DOGS NEED HOMES

We got this tip from the Take Me Home Pet Rescue people who are, as is their wondrous style, trying to help cats and dogs at the same time.

This reminder is specifically for this great outfit (bless the hearts and bankrolls of Take Me Home Pet Recue!). Remember, each weekend there are dozens -- maybe scores -- of rescue groups trying to help dogs and cats find homes in the Metrosprawl. Tell your critterless friends -- build up a positive buzz for the benefits of having a dog and/or cat around the house. What do they do? They make the size of your heart grow in a very positive way.

CONTEMPLATIONS: As someone who has been writing animal stories for more than a half-century, it is the sorriness of humans that sticks in my craw. I think I have a craw -- was absent two or three days in 10th grade biology. Anyway, I'm kind of sick of the mean humans, the ignorant humans and the don’t-care humans -- how do you change them? Legally, I mean. Readlarrypowell.com wants to go on record with this heartfelt declaration: I love my dogs and my cats and when I see their chubby little countenances, I ache for dogs treated like Sam was treated and cats that are “run off” by their humans. This emotional mix of disgust and despair over the behavior of my own species fuels my typing in an attempt to get more eyes to see animals that need help. And, now and then, I daydream of landing some crisp, flesh-popping slaps across the faces of the rotten SOBs who make animals’ lives miserable. Pardon my entirely accurate French. ... I once rescued a dog so thin you could almost hold her up to the light and see through her. Peaches was her name.  That's her on the left -- both photos, a year apart. She wound up being in a dogs-and-inmates program and was later adopted by a prison guard. She'd squeezed onto our front porch through the bars on the gate so she could dine on the feral cat buffet. I thought she might die on the way to the vet’s. Humans and their ignorance -- sheesh. God bless Peaches and her human. ... Our cat, The Senator, now a bit chubby, was a famished, wander-up older fellow. He didn’t escape someone. He was someone’s housecat. I suspect they “set him free.” You know what? Their loss. He’s a damned good friend. That's The Senator (right) showing off his dance moves -- he was thin in those days.  And on the left, you see that The Senator has discovered the pleasures of regular dining and having a household staff to tend to him. Whoever broke his heart...well, may you be changed and live with guilt that you turn into energy to help animals. I really can’t believe that now and then I show optimism. I’ve been in the news and writing business my entire since the age of 16 -- pessimism about human behavior is my natural state. When I get optimistic, I start to daydream about winning Lotto Texas and that’s about as likely as me passing the audition to high-kick for the Radio City Music Hall Rockettes this Christmas.
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PARDON THE BAD ATTITUDE

EDITION OF THURSDAY, JULY 27, 2017 [PetPowellPress] Before we get to helping a Canton Tornado Dog or discussing yet another SPCA encounter with a collection of poorly treated animals, we’re going to focus on this dog in he care of DallasDogrrr. 
 A late evening message from the rescuers reports that this poor sweet boy is still at an emergency clinic. Tough, tough road for him.

This is an ugly story to start the day with, but, you know, people other than rescuers and animal advocates need to know these things happen. People don't pay any attention. Send this to your friends who think all animals live cushy existences in air-conditioned homes.
Next time you get a chance to support stronger punishment for animal cruelty, think of this dog. 
He was posted Wednesday on Dallas Dogrrr’s Facebook page with this text: 
“100 DEGREES AND THIS BOY IS TETHERED AND STARVING--
“Absolutely horrified!! SAM'S owners refused offers of help and it wasn't until animal cruelty charges were threatened was SAM finally surrendered.
“This poor boy has been deprived of adequate shelter, food, and water for all of his life but that is about to change. We are now rushing SAM to the vet to save him. He is so dehydrated and anemic. He can't stand, is too weak to eat more than a couple of bites, and is scared to look you in the eye.
“We desperately need help with donations to find out what's going on with him and what we can do to save him. PLEASE HELP SAM!! www.dallasdogrrr.org/donate PayPal = [email protected].”


See a video of Sam HERE.

[LARRY ASIDE: I hope the face of that dog Sam haunts the people who did this to him. I’ve seen and rescued animals nearly this starved. They can come back if they get some love, food and vet care. Love is important. And, someone needs to throw these people in jail. I’m a taxpayer. I don’t want anybody cutting a deal to keep these people out of jail. In this circumstance, I’d say a good beating might be applicable. But that would, of course, be wrong. Unless I can get someone to suspend the Texas laws against aggravated assault -- because anybody in his right mind would be aggravated about this case. I don't advocate violence, but I do dream about it now and then. This is a now and then.]
HELPING TORNADO SADY IN CANTON

Our reliable tipster Sydney Busch of the Friends of the Animals at Cedar Creek Lake, sent us a note about helping a tornado dog.
Here’s the story from Sydney: “Sady, a 29-pound bundle of pure joy survived the tornados in Canton only to lose her family...Rescuers have been trying to reunite them - no luck. But some lucky family will get this girl - she's now spayed, up to date on vacs, on heartworm preventative, great with other dogs and cats and kids - HOUSETRAINED. SHE is truly the perfect dog - look at those ears!  everyone at the clinic Tuesday fell in love with her.” 
“The Clinic,” of course, refers to the place Sady was spayed, i.e., the Friends of the Animals Spay/Neuter Clinic, the world’s most successful spay/neuter clinic at Gun Barrel City, Texas.
To ask about adopting Sady, call Curtis or Robin Griffith at 903-288-2645 or email [email protected]. (You want to help the Friends keep doing great work, donate at friendsoftheanimals.org or go to their Facebook page. 
THE SPCA TEAMS WITH VAN ZANDT SHERIFF
TO SEIZE 31 ANIMALS -- DOGS, HORSES
Happened on Wednesday. The SPCA and the Van Zandt County Sheriff teamed up on property near Edgewood and seized 21 dogs and 10 horse that were in a fix. You can tell by the photos. Ribs showing on a horse. Dogs too thin for health and anchored to logging chains and trees. 
You know this wasn’t self-inflicted. The custody hearing is 9 a.m., Wednesday, Aug. 2, in Precinct 1 Peace Justice Pam Harvath’s court, 212 W. Garland St. in Grand Saline. 
See more photos HERE.
The SPCA says, “Many of the dogs were found outside, chained to truck beds, trees and other objects, without access to appropriate food or water. Five of the dogs were found living inside the feces-filled, filth-encrusted residence on the property without access to appropriate food. Two dogs were found living in a makeshift pen on the property. All of the dogs are emaciated. Half of the horses were roaming on the fenced property. These horses had access to food that neighbors were providing and water from a filthy pond. Three horses were found living in pens on the property without access to appropriate food and minimal water. Two horses were found tethered trees on short lengths of rope, without access to food and water. Some of the horses are thin.
The animals appear to have varying health issues, including malnourishment, flea infestation, fly bites, cracked hooves and other injuries.”
The sheriff’s office tipped the SPCA Animal Cruelty investigator to this situation. Go to spca.org to see how to donate to the cruelty investigations or the care of these animals.


IS THIS A RARE CAT?
OK, Readlarrypowell.com doesn’t claim to be a Cat Expert, but don’t we usually see M’s on the foreheads of cats rather than a stylized U? What is that on that cat? (That sentence sounds like the start of a Dr. Seuss poem.) Moving along, these cats are all available for $20 each at the Dallas Animal shelter’s PetSmart Everyday Adoption Center, 16821 N. Coit. The DAS Facebook page explained, “We're still seeing the effects of "kitten season," with babies flooding into the shelter every day. One of our biggest needs is foster parents (email [email protected] if you're interested), but we also need people to adopt once they're healthy and old enough to go home!”
 [LARRY NOTE: Readlarrypowell.com never endorses political candidates, but we will endorse cats. Cats finish discussions much faster than politicians.]

CONTEMPLATIONS: OK, I can’t shake this feeling -- I’d really like to see the people who abused Sam wind up in some kind of custody with a pet ban and a fine the size of the national debt. I’d like to see the judge in the case allow animal rescuers to line up and shout at the villains. Bless Dallas Dogrrr for trying to rescue that guy from a stinking lousy example of humanity. ... Saw a news story Wednesday about a company that’s going “let” its employees be “chipped” so they can enter the building without a key and buy snacks inside. You now, chip some chips. Casinos are bound to be next. Science fiction becomes fact. Yep, in the future corporations will make things easier for employees -- of course in the first two decades of the century corporations have made “exiting” easier for employees. ... This is being written while drowsy. Probably only have a handle on 23 of the 26 letters of the alphabet. I rose early Wednesday and spent some “us time” with Dudley the Angel, one of our wander-up pups. He’s such a great friend, it makes mad every time I think about someone dumping him in our neighborhood at Christmas. He’s adjusted to his real home now. He knows he’s loved. On his behalf, I’d like to discuss the effect of abandonment on animals with the jerk who opened the car door and shoved him out on our street. Pardon me for taking animal cruelty personally. Taking it personally is going to be the only way to beat these lousy SOBs into submission in court. What? Yeah, hand me an antacid and a prayer book. Of course, the prayer is for me. I need divine intervention when I think about committing assault and battery on a deserving jerk of a human.
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NOW AND THEN YOU MIGHT GET EMOTIONAL...FOR A GOOD REASON

EDITION OF WEDNESDAY, JULY 26, 2017 (PetPowellPress) -- Good stories in the animal kingdom? Yep. Good people working hard make good stories for animals. Let’s just get right into this midweek report.
NANOOK GETS A BREAK

We featured this hardluck Husky in our Tuesday edition. Deadline had been set for him today in the Denton McNatt Animal Shelter. The Tuesday afternoon, we got this note from shelter watcher Amy Poskey. It has her trademark excitement. Unedited, it reads:
MIRACLES STILL HAPPEN CUZ TEXAS HUSKY RESCUE JUST PULLED NANOOK!!!  
“WOOOOOOOOOHHHHHHHHOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!  I AM SOOOOOOOOOOO HAPPY!!! 
“Please honor your pledges by clicking on the link below.  Thank you so much everyone!!! Amy”

The pledges topped $300.

 Texas Husky Rescue, founded in 2009, has rescued more than 1,400 Huskies through the years. We’re not sure what the latest count is, but add Nanook to the list and feel free to count him twice: He was stray, adopted and returned for being “too stubborn.” That experience is worth a two-count!
EXPECTING -- BUT WHAT?
A litter? Or something tragic? Depends on people. This note bounced around through the rescue universe Monday and Tuesday and, just in case this pup is still waiting in the Garland Animal Shelter, here’s the text: "This sweetie is at the Garland Shelter.  Please network to save her and her upcoming pups. Call 972-205-3570. Email [email protected]."
[LARRY ASIDE: Even if this dog has been tagged and rescued, there are more animals in the Garland  Shelter that need a break. So, if you had a place for a pregnant Chihuahua and somebody beat you to her, then use that space to save another dog or cat or dog and cat or dogs and cats.]
THE EVOLUTION OF HOMER’S RESCUE
What drew our attention was this photo and a tip to checking out a Facebook note posted by Kristi Matthews.
The note (Larry note: I’m translating two of the words) reads, “DallasDogRRR rescued this baby. His a*bleep owners chained him in the back of their truck knocking him out and dragging him until the chain broke leaving him behind. Sad to say they didn't find these a*bleeps. ... This baby is ... undergoing treatments. They also found old broken bones. Please follow DallasDoggRRR for updates and to possibly donate!” 

He’s now known as Homer. And, he’s in his foster home now -- his face is healing and, in a note allegedly written by Homer, the sentence reads, “My foster mom really loves me already. She is a really nice lady who decided to give a big soulful strong boy like me a chance.” There’s an Amazon wishlist for Homer HERE. There’s a video of newly rescued Homer HERE.

Dallas Dogrrr says, “To adopt this amazing survivor, please go to Dallasdogrrr.org to fill out an application, If you would like to donate to Homer’s therapy, please go to dallasdogrrr.org/donate.”
 [LARRY ASIDE: Dear Readers, no need to daydream about what you’d like to do to the people who would chain a dog and drag him. It’s going to happen to them in the hereafter unless someone with a Readlarrypowell.com Two-by-four of Enlightment happens to find them first, though, of course, that would be wrong. I guess we could have a morality lesson and a prayer meetin’, right?]
HOW THE HECK DOES THIS HAPPEN?

Here’s the CBS 11 story on more than 100 dogs and cats being rescued from a home in Keller. They’re in the care of the Humane Society of North Texas in Fort Worth.
The story on the shelter’s Facebook page has this sickening description: "HSNT seized 111 animals (27 dogs and 84 cats) in collaboration with Keller Animal Control Officers yesterday. Upon arrival, officials found 14 distressed animals in a mini-van that was turned off with no AC. More dogs were found inside the home.
"Authorities discovered 84 emaciated cats in heat distress living in the garage with no AC or water. Their litter boxes were filled with feces.”

[LARRY ASIDE: So, what’s the solution? We ought to be grateful, I guess, that this doesn’t happen more often. Or maybe it does and we don’t know about it. Time for relatives and neighbors to discreetly help people get out of a self-inflicted situation, right? But start earlier than this.]
CONTEMPLATIONS: The Texas weather. Century mark one day, then chilly as spring the next night. You hardly know which pair of socks to sleep in to keep your toes at the proper temperature. ... Set your minds at ease: Our cat The Senator, named for his Capitol Hill Hairplug Hairline, denies that he’s been contacted regarding the U.S. Attorney General position. “I’m busy writing my memoirs,” he told a paper in England. “The Queen’s Corgis may remember my visit. Quivering little dogs until I got them to relax by purring lullabies and shoving biscuits off the table so they could quit being regal and focus on snacking.” The Senator has experience in shaping canine behavior. (FYI: You may have read that the Queen, bless her charitable heart, recently adopted a 9-year-old Corgi named Whisper. Good for her!)  ... Speaking of the English, we mentioned in yesterday’s report that one of the acts on the Chevrolet Main Stage at the State Fair of Texas will be Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Bluegrass Band. So, how would this band handle a fantastic song such as The Beatles’ Elinor Rigby? HERE’S HOW. Pretty darned high-toned Bluegrass.
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THE SAVING GRACE OF ANIMALS; MONARCHS; PAT GREEN AT THE STATE FAIR FREE!

EDITION OF TUESDAY, JULY 25, 2017 (PetPowellPress) We’ll get to the explanation of that funny photo in a second.
And we’ll also get to Pat Green, the entertainer, and the State Fair of Texas’ free shows in a bit.
And we’ll get to the dog from a trash bin, too.
But, first we’ve got to get some help for this dog Nanook. We’ve mentioned Nanook before. thanks of course to the Denton McNatt Animal Care & Adoption Center volunteer monitor Amy Poskey. Remember the story? Nanook found as a stray, adopted and returned for being too stubborn. 
On Monday, Amy sent out this note: “I just got the dreaded news from the shelter manager that Nanook only has until COB Wednesday, 7/26/17. This is absolutely heartbreaking cuz Nanook is such a good boy and is just so full of life.  He’s always so happy to see you and spend time in the play yard with his human.  I just can’t believe this majestic boy will die simply because he doesn’t get along with other dogs.  That should NOT be a death sentence for any dog!  Good grief, where are all the people who want just one dog???!”

Vetted, crate-trained, healthy, smart, handsome. He is available “for 501c3 rescue and/or adopters with Husky experience.”
Contact the shelter via [email protected], paul.o’[email protected], [email protected], and/or [email protected] . Call the shelter at 940-349-7594 or stop by 3717 N. Elm St. in Denton. Adoption hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Staffers are there 8 a.m. to 5 p.m
Don’t make a staffer shove the death needle into this boy.
AND THEN THERE’S THIS DOG
His name is currently Oscar and he’s 36007089 at the Mesquite Animal Shelter. We found out about him because of a note from our longtime tipster, the animal advocate and rescuer Deborah Lynn Verner.
The little, 4-month-old Terrier/Pittie mix didn’t just wander up to the shelter. Here’s the story as posted Saturday afternoon on the Mesquite shelter’s Facebook site: “Mesquite Animal Services got a call today from a concerned citizen who was walking her dog past the Mesquite ISD offices off Towne Crossing Blvd. She heard a strange noise coming from the dumpster and looked inside to find this pup. We sent our on call officer out there right away and Oscar is now resting comfortably at the shelter. He will be held for observation and for a 72-hour stray hold period and then will be available for adoption.
“We would like to thank Michelle and her family for alerting us to this situation so promptly. We are so appreciative for our community support and ‘watchdogs’ so we can protect the pets and our community in a timely manner.” 
Visit this LINK . Be warned: Oscar’s not the only cutie you’re going to want to take home.
[LARRY ASIDE: What kind of creep would drop a dog off into a metal trash bin in Texas on a July day? What should the penalty be for such animal abuse? Yeah, I know, but dropping a bad human into a hot trash bin is not the right thing to do either. Might be fun to listen to for a while, though. More fun than listening to the whimpering of a terrified puppy. Time to get the ol’ 2017 model of the Readlarrypowell.com Two-by-Four of Enlightenment and help someone achieve realization of the difference between right and wrong. Yea, that would be wrong, too, but, maybe we could just apply the Two-by-Four until we felt bad about it.]
A DOG NAMED NOAH
The latest Take Me Home Pet Rescue newsletter had many captivating stories, but this one of Noah pretty much grabs your heart. 
He was a dog in trouble until the rescue group got involved. He was a 3-month-old, 35-pound adorable stray with dire challenges.
TMHDR’s opening paragraph on its appeal for financial help reads, “Our big, fluffy boy, Noah who started his journey as a stray wandering the streets and taken in by Balch Springs Animal Shelter.  Clearly this boy had been out for a few weeks looking for food and water anywhere he could find it.  And when un-vaccinated puppies wander through grass, dirt and puddles of filthy water, the chances of illness are exponential.”


He tested positive for parvo, then recovered. Then Demodex mange grabbed this boy.

But he is recovering and, the rescue says, “This boy is one of the most lovable, huggable and laid back BIG LUGS we have seen in a very long time.” 


The group is trying to raise $1,315 to pay his bills and, as of Monday evening, had raised $770. Here’s the RAZOO DONATION LINK. He’ll eventually be available for adoption at Take Me Home Pet Rescue HERE.
A BUNCH IN RED OAK
We’ve mentioned here before that Laura Macias, the animal shelter angel, has taken the Red Oak Shelter under her wing. And she’s hustling to help the animals in the low-traffic shelter. Photos help.
So, thanks to Laura and the people who forward her notes, we have these animals to display.

That girl Brynne has just about the saddest look you can see on a shelter dog. She’d just come into the shelter.
Here’s the story on her from the shelter folks: “Sweet girl that just came into the shelter.  Really pretty girl.  These Blue Lacy or Texas Lacy dogs as they are sometimes called originated in Texas in the mid-1800's.  They are considered a working dog but do make very good family pets.  You can see her ears look a lot like a retriever.  This sweetie is bashful since she just came in - we will post more once known and we have a chance to get to know her, but please, won't you consider saving her?”


These aren’t the only dogs and cats in the shelter, but they are the urgent residents. To help Laura help the animals, call or text 214-949-2726. Email [email protected]. 


 

   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CONTEMPLATIONS: Readlarrypowell.com has been fascinated by Monarch Butterflies since childhood and even wrote a column about them (more than once) during our extended career at The Big Paper Downtown. So, the Facebook post Sunday by our pal Lisa Konkoly Buick in Near East Texas, caught our attention. She wrote, “Last year we had so many Monarch butterflies hatch. This year, only one so far. This morning there were several caterpillars eating the fennel - we were so excited - tonight they are gone and one is dead on the vine. I'm really worried especially since there was that late freeze in Mexico that killed so many. Has anyone else seen any Monarchs, Monarch eggs, or caterpillars?” Bound to be someone among our Dear Readers who knows about these beautiful butterflies. ... We were writing about Fuzzy the Cat, that fellow losing his home in the antique store in Gainesville, and wondered how far Gainesville is up I-35 from Dallas -- the site we picked said it’s 1 hour, 10 minutes from Dallas to Gainesville So we wondered about the distance from Fort Worth and the same site said 1 hour, 5 minutes. Road construction delays are not included in either of those estimates. And probably it’s quicker from Fort Worth because the drivers can stay within the lines. I drive everyday with Dallas drivers -- not sure they take the straightest routes. If you get my wavering drift. Drift being the correct word. ... See that photo?

It’s a sign that the State Fair of Texas is gettin’ ready to hitch up Big Tex’s britches. Is that Big Tex? Pretty close. It’s the Big Popular Country Singer Pat Green talking with the State Fair PR Executive Cowgirl Karissa Condoianis about his free Saturday evening October 14 show on the Main Stage. View their video HERE  . And if you go to the BigTex.com Chevrolet Main Stage site HERE you’ll see an amazing list of acts ranging from Maren Morris and La Mafia to Wilson Phillips and Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Bluegrass Band. Here’s a Pat Green song to get you to the Fair this fall. FYI: This song reminds me of my funspouse, Martha, born right here in Big D.
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TRASH-DIVING AND OTHER TAILS...

EDITION OF MONDAY, JULY 24, 2017 (PetPowellPress) Because I constantly marvel at the electronics in the 21st century, I excitedly announced to my Funspouse Martha that a local store is selling motion-sensor household trash cans and she replied wisely, “I wonder if the dogs can work that.”

None of our dogs or cats ever get into the kitchen trash -- it’s behind a door. So I went to the Dallas Animal Services and Facebook sites to look for available Dallas animals that might be interested in learning how to operate your new motion-sensor trash can -- honestly, can't we make household items entertaining for someone! Train the critters to take your trash from your TV-viewing site to the motion-sensor can. I try to think positive in these matters -- that they’ll deliver the trash, not pause to analyze  it. 
Poppy (A1001549 on the right) looks like he’d be interested in helping with the trash. 
Riley (A1001279 on the left) appears to already be licking his chops in anticipation of the arrival of a trash can that can be opened without thumbs.
Then there’s Coco (A0994935), preparing her muzzle for some trash diving.
And one cannot discuss the art of alley catting in the trash bins without presenting A1002476, a Dallas Animal Services cat named, appropriately, Juicy. Clearly Juicy has the "posing in anticipation" skills for a dive into a motion sensor operated trash can.
See these available animals and many more at dallasanimalservices.org or the DAS Facebook site. Enjoy your new trash can dog and/or cat. Save some lives. Pass this on to people you know who need a companion to love. Give 'em our address: readlarrypowell.com. This animal-friendly newssite has been in operation since June 2004.
THE ANTIQUE STORE CAT;

THE MODERN-DAY THREAT
This cat is Fuzzy. And the story of Fuzzy’s challenge comes to us from rescuer Debbie Deese in Gainesville, due north of Dallas/Fort Worth right up I-35 just over an hour if there’s no construction or wrecks. So, block in about 1:45 to 2 hours if you are driving. 
It will be worth the drive to be the person who saves Fuzzy.
Debbie says, “Fuzzy is in danger of losing the only home she has ever known. She lives in a crumbling antique store that is no longer open and is scheduled for demolition. It is not air conditioned and she only sees a human once a week who fills up her food and water bowl and then leaves. This super friendly affectionate creature only wants love and attention. Her coat is a beautiful white tipped combination of colors.
“She sheds because of eating dry food and no a/c so the building owner won't take her home (He is elderly and can no longer care for pets due to health.)
“Is there room in the manger? I will assist in getting this sweet thing to a rescue that can open their doors to her. Please contact me if anyone can open their hearts and their home.” Debbie prefers texting her at 214-863-8555.
PLANO TIPS; ART AND ANIMALS


When I went to Plano Animal services website I saw these pieces of artwork, one having to do with a heads-up on clearing the shelter and the other having to do with a wonderful art idea. First, the Clear the Shelter artwork -- for the now-annual event. Then the art installation


You have until the end of day July 31 to submit the story of your animal “for a chance to have your pet featured in a new art installation at the Plano Animal Shelter.” Click HERE  for the info. [LARRY ASIDE: Some day someone will write a book about the dramatic change in animal shelters in Texas. It wasn’t very long ago that they were not pleasant, had no artwork except warning signs and were more likely to frighten people than to suggest that loving people were trying to help animals. Bless all those folks who campaigned for decency on behalf of animals.]
AN ELEGANT GREY FROM GALTx
The latest weekly email from the Greyhound Adoption League of Texas contained a lot of interesting dog stories, some fund-raising stories and other notes. The eye-catching dog was Cabella, described as “elegant,” just as captured in this picture by Shagly Pet Photography. She is about 8 years old and every year hasn’t been elegant. She was apparently used for breeding and, yep, wound up in a shelter, fortunately the Humane Society of North Texas which connected GALTx.
On the GALTx.org website, there was a note from the dog’s foster who lovingly wrote, “Cabella, mia bella, the beautiful girl with the wisdom of the world in her eyes. One glance and she’ll melt your heart. I think in a past life, Cabella was a ballerina, a quiet beauty full of grace. She floats around the house like a gentle butterfly. You’ll often find Cabella on her bed curled up in a ball, nose tucked under a back leg sleeping.”
LARRY FYI: In case you are looking for a dog, the aforementioned Humane Society of North Texas has some and even uses a subtle reference to a Sir Mix-a-Lot hit from 1992. Oh my flying time machine, can it be that far back? Here's the HSNT dog ad. Oh, and that big dog Dixie (left) is one of the availables.


CONTEMPLATIONS: Hot enough for you? Yes. How do we cool off? We stare into this photograph of the Monday morning snowstorm that blanketed North Texas and stalled traffic while rendering all traffic cameras frozen and coated with a buildup of flakes. And, yes, you’d have to have a personal buildup of flakes to think that was an actual photo of a snowstorm in Dallas, Texas, in July. ... Quick: Name your favorite breakfast at home: Oatmeal. Cream of Wheat. Eggs ‘n’ biscuits? What? You make your home in a donut shop and prefer raspberry-filled donuts? I’m kidding. Craving and kidding. FYI: Don't list cold cereal out of a box. After all, Kix are for kids. ... Any other East Texas natives out there who live in flat, hot Dallas and really miss the towering pines clustered in the Piney Woods and front yards in that part of the Lone Star State? Ah, breezes. Cool breezes.
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A SLEEPING DOG SPEAKS

For this weekend edition of Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap, we’re presenting a brief interview with Wendy, more formally Wednesday Louise Wagstaff Arden, seen here in an artistic photo with her occasional nocturnal companion, Deputy Chief Kittie Leigh Johnson. 
They are on staff here at Readlarrypowell.com. Chief Johnson did not participate in the interview conducted by an anonymous newshound. She did, however, continue to demonstrate the art of being a Napping Cat. Our interview:

INTERVIEWER: YOU HAVE AN INTERESTING NAME, MS. ARDEN, CAN YOU EXPLAIN IT?
WENDY: Wendy?

INT: NO, THE LONG ONE.

WENDY: The dominant mammal in the household selected this name for me. It results from a combination of factors. I was brought into this home, this Casa de Loco, on a Wednesday. And the dominant mammal, whose name I believe is Martha the Monikerspouse, gives all her female animal friends the middle name Louise. She also is a fan of Ellen Wagstaff Arden, the character played by Irene Dunne in 1940s’s My Favorite Wife, by Marilyn Monroe in 1962’s Something’s Got To Give and by the animal-rescuer and advocate Doris Day in the 1963 rom-com Move Over Darling.
INT: HOW DO YOU KNOW SO MUCH ABOUT MOVIES? SERIOUSLY MISS ARDEN, HOW MANY DOGS KNOW THE TERM “ROM-COM?”

WENDY: A lot of us! Dogs have been watching old movies on TV for as long as humans have had rabbit ears! I used the generational reference to appeal to your older readers. The truth is, when I’m on the couch in front of the television, I’m not always asleep. And my hearing is fantastic. I can hear a cracker hit linoleum from the other side of a closed door. Also, I listen to films and TV programs in case a conversation breaks out between our two species. I’d prefer that the topic be something enjoyable rather than the same old canine, “Is it dinnertime yet? I’m famished.” Truthfully, most animals who live in houses have no idea what “famished” means. Though I do recall that for years we lived with a particularly focused Cocker Spaniel named Inky. If food wasn’t the topic, his mind had a tendency to wander.
INT: TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND
WENDY: Well, of course, nobody’s sprung for a DNA test -- buying rabies shots was expense-enough, I’m led to believe. And spaying -- we had a coupon, as I recall. I got a free bumper sticker that reads “RELAX. I DON’T LITTER.” I’m still loved and I still love. And to exercise my maternal instinct, I'll frequently cuddle with a human or a cat.
INT; WHAT ABOUT YOUR BREEDING

WENDY: I’m betting my family tree has more forks than a shopping mall cafeteria in the ‘80s. Based on appearance, my best guess is Boxer and Birddog. I’ve got jowls and a bit of a boxy face and, yet, I have the slim hips of a bird dog, built for sneaking through thickets and warning birds not to draw attention by suddenly launching themselves into the morning sky. I learned the special bark, “WOOF WOOF ARF” which, in the language of feathered creatures, means “Stay put, the guy with the gun has been drinking.” As for additional ancestral elements, we’ve ruled out Yorkie, Pug and Golden. I’m cute, but not that cute.
INT: HOW DID YOU COME TO LIVE WITH THE LUNATIC FAMILY?
WENDY: Pure luck. Timing. Right place at the right time. I was out walking along on South Polk in Dallas trying to be invisible behind a couple of teenagers I was trailing discreetly. The Dominent Mammal saw me and wondered if I was with those two people. She pulled up beside them and got out of her rescuemobile to meet me. They denied being my humans. And Martha the KindSpouse told them she would take me and find a home for me. I was, I should mention, on my best behavior, as I have always been. And, yes, the KindSpouse lived up to her word.
INT: HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT THE ART OF SLEEPING? 

WENDY: The art of sleeping? I feel this is a good rule: Let sleeping dogs lie. But wake them periodically and give them treats that build their confidence and admiration for anyone with thumbs.

INT: IN YOUR LIFE, WHAT HAS BEEN THE BIGGEST INJUSTICE?

WENDY: That’s easy. No one will pay for hair extensions so I can really put on the dog during the holidays.
INT: Thank you.
WENDY: A pleasure. Do you need a bigger hint about, perhaps, a "thank-you, good dog, treat?"
[Send photos of your slumbering animals and the story of their lives to [email protected]. We’re proud to post them as a demonstration of love and as role model for insomniacs.]