ReadLarryPowell.com

THE TRUTH, THE CHALLENGES, THE GOSPEL AND OTHER THINGS...

EDITION OF WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2021 [PetPowellPress] Back in the late 1960s/early 1970s there was a best-selling book about a key Vietnam War event. The book’s title was “Truth Is The First Casualty.” That’s based on a quote from 1917 by U.S. Sen. Hiram Johnson of California: 
“The first casualty when war comes is truth.”
And that kind of explains why I hope some intrepid reporter will get busy determining whether American service dogs were left locked in their kennels at the Kabul airport or whether they were saved. [LARRY EXPLANATION: You probably already know, Dear Readers, that this photo is the one at the center of the discussion about the military dogs. This version is from wionews.com.]

Here is a far-from-totally-inclusive roundup of stories.

We start with one from the SPCA International website — thanks to Animal Activist Nili Asgharian for pointing out the LINK.
And here is a Yahoo News story about the Pentagon “debunking” reports about the dogs being left behind.
The New York Post has a story that says dogs WERE left behind.
People Magazine’s STORY reports the Pentagon’s side.
Nili also notes that PETA has sounded an alarm — that link is HERE.
[LARRY FYI: This opening item is not a political commentary from readlarrypowell.com, it’s simply a bit of puzzling over the positions taken in stories — evidence that I’m just an old-school journalist who recognizes what he stepped in when his boots begin to draw flies. It ain’t my first rodeo, but I don’t know which way the bull is bucking.]
HOW ABOUT A GOOD
BREAK FOR ALYSSA!
In our last-day-of-August edition we pointed out that the folks at Bridgeport Animal Shelter have been tending to a deaf little girl named Alyssa.
And one of the emails we got Tuesday was a note from the aforementioned Animal Activist Nili Asgharian about that very dog. 
The note read that Alyssa “has gone to rescue this morning.” Nili had been in touch with the Bridgeport shelter. And, as you may recall reading, 4-Legged Helpers has been helping Bridgeport draw attention to its sheltered animals.
Indeed, the Helpers’ connections helped this “sweetest girl ever.” She is “probably completely deaf” — a very surmountable situation for a dog and a human melded by love. She’s also a dog who “loves and adores everyone and everything.”
 So where in big-hearted Texas is Alyssa going? Nowhere in Texas. We’re losing this girl to Connecticut, according to 4-legged helpers. Alyssa will initially be in the care of Leader of the Pack Rescue — there’s already a foster home lined up, the Helpers say.

In the meantime, the Helpers’ Facebook page HERE cites many other dogs needing help with homing. To ask about these two dogs, call or text Laura Macias at 214-949-2726 or email [email protected] yahoo.com.
This Earhound with the wonderfully distinct coat is Rory, a current resident of the Lancaster Animal Shelter. He’s described by the Helpers as a “baby male” who is a “Shepherd/Catahoula Mix.” Only about 6 months old, he is, as comes with the age, “adorable” and “sweet’ and “just as cute as cute can be,” the Helpers say. And, “Loves everyone and everything."

Once again, readlarrypowell.com is citing this guy Jeffrey, also in the Lancaster shelter. 
We’ve been posting his “sad-eyed boy” photo hoping to get the attention of a heart willing to make the guy happy.
But, we’re adding, for this edition, a “sitting and smiling” version of Jeffrey, the young Boxer/Bulldog mix. His bio says he also “loves everyone and everything!” It also says, “He is extremely good with other dogs, too - we have several videos of him meeting a dog named Max, if interested in seeing.  Jeffrey is sweet, lovable, affectionate, and such a cute cuddly boy. ADORABLE!"
THIS IS CHUCK: HE’S
GOT UNTIL FRIDAY THE 9TH
Well, good grief. Somebody hide the needles at the Smith County Animal Shelter in Tyler. 
We got a note from Gail Whelan, the legendary rescuer with Companion-Animal Network, reports that unless something wonderfully kind occurs, Chuck, the “purebred Black and Tan Coonhound … will be euthanized on 9/9/21.”
Look, let’s not make this some kind of last-minute thing. The 3-year-old, 54-pound stray can be saved any danged day between now and then — you comprehend?
To ask about helping Chuck, get in touch with the Smith County Animal Control at 903-266-4303 or email [email protected] And, you should also get in touch with Gail at [email protected] — if you’re wanting to tag and rescue or somehow help Chuck. Also, call C-AN Adoptions at 903-967-3226. Chuck’s not the only dog in East Texas who needs a home. Link up with the organization at www.ca-n.petfinder.com.
CONTEMPLATIONS

HUMANS, HEARTS AND MY CAT
Dear Texans, look back at today’s highlighted animals. How can we not adopt these animals? Well, of course, most of the people reading this have already adopted more animals than we ever thought we’d have.
 But, while there may always be a way we can make room for one or two more, and a couple of more after that, there also must be a way to preach the Gospel of Critter Adoption to people who aren’t showin’ up for prayer meetin’ and Sunday school. 
Sorry. My childhood Baptist Boy took over my keyboard and began to try to remind people that they’re sinnin’ against their own hearts if they don’t give some love to a dog or cat on the brink of tragedy in a city or county shelter. They ain’t all no-kill, you know.

Whew. I may take up an offerin’ in a minute after I play guitar and sing a solo of Throw In A Ten Spot; Dodge a Place That’s Real Hot. … Wait. I haven’t written that one yet.

That is my pink-nosed office cat William rolling his eyes, looking “Above” and reminding me, “Hey, Rev. Goofball, Texas is among the 50 states where you’re not licensed for preachin’ or passin’ the offerin’ plate.” And that, Ladies and Gents, is one more good reason to take in a free-roamin’ cat — he’ll keep ya honest.
— Offer guidance or disgust by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] and putting ‘I Saw The Light’ in the subject line. —

WE CONSIDER THE WAY THINGS WORKED OUT FOR FRIGHTENED, DUMPED McKINLEY

[EDITION OF TUESDAY, Aug. 31, 2021 [PetPowellPress] The end of August means the beginning of “fall” — all the signs are there: Football hopes arrive, baseball hope depart even farther into the distance, back-to-school merchandise shoved aside for Halloween… You know how it goes. And in that spirit, I’m going to move right along to Thanksgiving. Today I’m feeling particularly thankful for all the animals  and all the animal people I’ve encountered in my time as a writer of critter lore.
For example, that’s my office cat William Powell napping on a packing box with his pal B.O. Spaniel, full name Battery Operated Spaniel. Comforted by William, we move on with the day’s report. And, our Contemplation is one paragraph about euthanasia. Please read on.
THE DOG WAS McKINLEY;
HIS FATE IS TOTALLY SAD…
We were able to write about saving this Husky boy McKinley because 4-Legged Helpers is assisting the Bridgeport Animal Shelter with finding safe places for unwanted animals.
Every now and then the most optimistic people in the world — animal advocates and rescuers — are reminded that things don’t always work out.
 And it’s not because of who currently has custody of an animal, it’s because of someone who, before good hearts got involved, set an animal on a path with a fatal destiny.
A week ago, we published the story of McKinley, this handsome Siberian Husky who’d been dumped in Bridgeport, northwest of Fort Worth, and was on the euthanasia list in the city’s shelter. 
He was not a “good” shelter dog. He was suffering from some sort of eye problem and he was frightened. That is a bad combination. 

At least one person knew what McKinley’s life was like before he was found wandering in a town with a population of around 6,500. That one person must not have cared at all about this dog.
Nobody who met him knew for sure about his past, but they did realize his present. And he was on the shelter’s euthanasia list. What looks, in these photos, like a calm dog, was really a dog who was frightened and not able to see clearly enough to react properly. He could trust no one. 
The folks with 4-Legged Helpers asked the shelter to give McKinley a little time so they could find someone to work with him, someone to save his life. The shelter did.

But things don’t always go as planned or hoped. 
As the note from Laura Macias of 4-Legged Helpers read Monday, “Sad news about McKinley the Husky you may have seen previously posted. He bit someone’s arm quite badly and a very sad decision had to be made.

“Donations covered his vet fees and anything left will go towards helping dogs with transport costs or vet fees” at the Bridgeport shelter or with a private animal control contracted by Dallas County on the southern side of town.
Laura’s note explained the “4-Legged Helpers has zero overhead and every penny donated goes to helping a dog or cat in need at the rural shelters we post that have so few adoptions, or on the street in these often economically challenged areas. … 

“We so appreciate everyone that helped. We also so hope you will consider a dog below to save in McKinley’s name. It’s people that failed him. A long time ago before the shelter or any of us ever met him. He deserved better in this world. We have found the best way to get over grief of losing one is to help another… we hope you agree.”
There may have been no way to save McKinley — that happens sometimes.
In an exchange with readlarrypowell.com, Laura had the perfect tone when she wrote, “I know Humans failed him and continued to till he died. We were so hopeful for him! I pray he is an angelic dog now and knows love that he deserves.”
FROM McKINLEY WE MOVE
TO ANIMALS YOU CAN SAVE

We’ve mentioned these before, thanks tor Laura Macias and Leighann Hayden and other “4-Legged Helpers.”
To ask about getting these animals to safety, call or text 214-949-2726 or Facebook message Laura Macias or email [email protected]

That girl with the fantastic face and ears is 33-pound, year old Marigold. She’s full grown to a “medium size” and the loving dog enjoys “walking, running, playing and adores all people and all dogs.” 

Brody is the Lab Mix who was “rescued form a ditch, poor sweet guy, where it appears he had ended up after being injured.” He’s had time to heal and now this guy needs a place to live, not just wait for what comes next.

Mason is the Bulldog mix who is “happy, affectionate and extremely loveable.” He’s probably under 2 and “loves to play and have fun.”
This girl Alyssa is “deaf” and also “a darling girl. Calm, gentle, lovable. … You will not meet a sweeter dog anywhere.” She’s a Pointer or Pointer mix, the Bridgeport shelter says.

MEANWHILE, BACK ON THE SOUTH SIDE OF DALLAS AT LANCASTER, there are these three dogs trying to beat the system and avoid euthanasia. The Helpers are on their side and that’s how we learned about them weeks ago. Lancaster has a low human-traffic facility, so the Helpers email them around and post them on Facebook at 4-Legged Helpers Inc.

 That first guy is a favorite, Jeffrey, a “sweet, lovable, affectionate and such a cute cuddly boy.” Boxer/Bulldog mix, the shelter says. 

Jakob is the young Lab mix who was found stray while on a playground roping with kids. He’s “extremely cute in person” and is a “great boy!”

And Roman, is a “beautiful fixed Labrador Retriever with the prettiest white teeth and always wearing a sweet goofy grin. Long adorable ears.” Surrendered by someone who “could no longer care for him…He is RUNNING OUT OF TIME — NEEDS SOMEONE.”
Call or text 214-949-2726 or Facebook message Laura Macias or email [email protected]

MEANWHILE IN MESQUITE, 

MILLIE AND TAWNY WAITING…
One of the really good things about Mesquite Animal Services is the volunteer program — these are people who are devoted to animals and to helping them find homes. Smaller shelters function without volunteers, sometimes. Volunteers are essential in the animal rescue and advocacy arena.

We learn about these two dogs from Mesquite volunteer dog biographer Debra Chisholm.
She and our pal Judi Brown turn out these bios at a brisk pace.

MILLIE is a 2-year-old, 47-pound Terrier mix who came into the Mesquite shelter as a stray on August 25.
Debra writes, “Upon arriving outside for her photo shoot, she raced full-speed around the yard with such an exuberant spirit and obviously thrilled to be out of her kennel and in the great outdoors.  She walked OK on the leash.  She pottied in the yard.  She ran and played in the yard, chasing balls--sometimes returning them and sometimes not.  She is an athletic and high-spirited girl.  She knows the sit command and will take treats, catching them in her mouth.  She is friendly and has a nice disposition. She is high energy and will need a person or family willing to exercise and spend time training her to do some commands.”
 To ask about Millie cite her ID #48521919 when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected]

Use the same contact points when you get in touch with the shelter to ask about this beautiful girl Tawny, a mixed-breed who came in on the 21st as a stray. She’s #48497777.
 Tawny is about 6 months old, weighs 44 pounds and is spayed. She also walked “OK on a leash” and, Debra wrote, “When led through the bay she did not show any aggression towards the other dogs.  In the shelter yard she ‘met’ another dog through the gate and was friendly.  She has an outgoing and confident personality.  Tawny is neither timid nor shy!

“She has lots of puppy energy and in her excitement will jump on you so that would need to be addressed.  She is playful and fun-loving.  Tawny loves treats and though she does not know to sit for them, she will catch them in her mouth!  Tawny is a friendly girl with a sweet nature.  She would make a wonderful companion for a person or family who is active and would spend time exercising and training her.”

You can see more animals — dogs and cats — waiting for homes in the Mesquite shelter by clicking HERE .
Lots of dogs and cats waiting. And kittens, too, including this 3-month-old kitten (#47939777 — arrival photo from July 31, I’m betting). Anyway, this is the very first cat I’ve encountered in my entire life who is known as “Mung Bean.”
[LARRY ASIDE: Not a relative of Rowan Atkinson, the actor, I’m pretty sure. Any Mr. Bean fans read this far?]
CONTEMPLATION
A THOUGHT ABOUT EUTHANASIA
McKinley was euthanized after an unfortunate biting incident. But in the State of Texas and in many shelters in North Texas, a dog or a cat doesn’t have to ferociously bite anybody to get a death sentence. A loving, adorable dog or cat just has to be that one-too-many animal in a crowded shelter, that animal that has survived “too long” in a shelter… You’d think humans could figure out a way to save ‘em all. Maybe, as a species, we’re just not trying hard enough.
 How can the Animal Advocates get more and more people to be active in the cause?
—- Please offer thoughts by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] —-

AND ON MONDAY MORNING, WE THINK OF RAIN, ELEPHANT EARS & DOGS WITH FRIENDS...

EDITION OF MONDAY, AUGUST 30, 2021 [PetPowellPress] Having spent much of the weekend on I-30 east and marveling at the beautiful countryside, I found myself standing on our front porch Sunday and experiencing a darned near poetic rainstorm. I opened the front door to go out and was greeting by an ear-rattling crack thunder that jarred every plant in the front yard including my pumpkin plants.
Some rainstorm. It almost made me forget all about Afghanistan and Hurricane Ida. Not quite though. So, we reach Monday’s edition with weekend images.
And I’ll begin with this photo of the rain cascading from the roof onto my gardenspouse Martha’s annual crop of Elephant Ears. Such hypnotic plants when they wave in a gentle breeze. Now, let dive into a Monday edition and try to remember that there are good people and good storms that cross our paths.
Good dogs, too, and if you'll click on our Prayers and Passages link to the right, you'll read about my friend Earl, Texas Earl the Cheeseman, my Rottweiler, a fellow that it took me some time to gather the ability to write about...
LET’S TALK FINN
FOR JUST A SECOND
This is one of those stories that involves a dog of a rare breed (Duck Toller Retriever Mix from Canada) who winds up in a common fix.
We spotted it via a Susan McCoy (SoCall Keshond Rescue) alert that took us to longtime tipster Debbie New’s Plano post about a dog who has the attention of Ginger Leach, the determined animal advocate at Fort Worth Animal Care and Control.
Here’s how the note goes: “Finn was adopted from Fort Worth Animal Control … at the end of July… He was surrendered to the Plano Animal Shelter because he possibly bit the owner the day she adopted him. She is a senior citizen and she was told by FW to have him on a leash when she took him out in the yard and she did not. 
“She let him loose with her old dog and they got in a fight and she got bitten. She said it possibly could have been from the ring on the tag and not the dog's tooth …. He appears to be a Duck Toller Retriever mix. He is fully vetted and chipped and is RESCUE ONLY. The owner signed him over for euthanasia and had him for about 24 hours. He is about 10 months of age and weighs about 33 pounds. Finn is house-trained and good with female dogs. Please call the Plano Animal Shelter at 972-769.4360 if you can rescue. His ID is A181337 and is just the cutest little thing!”
DFW’S FURGOTTEN FRIENDS’
ADOPTION WEEKEND + THOR
Animal people are always encountering adventures. 
Now, here’s an example and it comes from Stephen Foster, the founder, president and guiding light of DFW’s Furgotten Friends. The organization had a really good adoption day over the weekend.
Then Stephen posted, this note: “Of course, a good adoption day can’t last forever. We now need a new foster for Niki. Her current foster has been wonderful and very patient, but patience is wearing thin. Niki is great with dogs but is very afraid of people. She is also a little destructive — meaning tearing up shoes and chewing on furniture. I’ve promised her current foster I will get her out this week. If you have a lot of patience and are willing to do what’s needed to help Niki learn confidence and get over what I know is fearful destructive behavior, please reach out to me or the rescue.” Here’s the FACEBOOK LINK.
Now, the recent challenge was, for a bit, this puppy Thor who, as you can see is all grown up. He was a foster failure — his puppiness and darling nature made a whole foster family fall for him and they adopted him in November 2017.
They love him. But they’re in a situation that will require them to not be with Thor for at least six months. Stephen jumped in to try tho help and appealed to anyone with a knack for helping a dog help Thor.
Things were looking tough.
Over the weekend, Stephen posted this message — keep in mind that was after a “good adoption day” for DFW’s Furgotten Friends. 
He wrote, “Here’s an update on Thor. I the 11th hour his family figured out a way to keep him!”
[LARRY ASIDE: And there you have it. Love is a powerful implement in the humane existence. 
Love on, I say. Love on and always have room in your heart for dogs and cats and, of course, some people. Other people, well, they need to work on it, right?]
CONTEMPLATIONS
A THOUGHT, MAYBE TWO….
This is the item that won the Big Tex Choice Award’s “sweet” division over the weekend. It’s called The Armadillo and was created by James Barrera. The savory winner (also the “Most Creative” winner) was the Deep Fried Seafood Gumbo Balls created by Gourmet Royale from a family recipe handed along from New Orleans. You can seem more entries and more photos and cooks' explanations by going to this LINK on The Fair’s Big Tex website ...
Incidentally, the note abut the Awards came from Texan Karissa Condoianis, the executive vice president of public relations for the State Fair. And she closed with “Our thoughts and prayers are for the safety of the families and communities along the Gulf Coast and in the path of Hurricane Ida.” If I were a Baptist deacon, I’d probably rumble out an extraordinarily sincere basso profundo “Amen.”...
That’s our bottle-fed kitten Simon a couple of days ago— he’d just realized he hadn’t looked out the window since February. “Where’s the snow?” he mewsed.
Then, he asked, “How about some Alaska baked salmon for dinner tonight — something not from a can.” I had to tell him that our neighborhood Luby’s at I-30 and 820 in Fort Worth has closed. No more Luanne Platters in the neighborhood. And, while that sign says “Fresh Alaskan Salmon Cut Daily” I’m pretty sure they cooked it, too. Wouldn’t know — I’m a vegetarian. I’ll miss the broccoli and the calories in the rolls. That photo was taken the day the cafeteria closed, the afternoon no one was in line, the evening people pulled into the parking lot, looked at the car-less parking lot and rolled away in search of something that they'll never be able to get again unless someone says, "Hey, I won Lotto Texas! Let's open a cafeteria! Quick, bake some pies!"
—- Offer ideas or improvements for mankind by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] and put CATS ARE PEOPLE, TOO in the subject line. —

THE NOCTURNAL CAT, THE MOVIES & SLEEP

For this edition of Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap, we ask this question of humans: “What’s going on while you’re out like a light!?"
These two photos may not represent the reality at your house.
You see here photographs of The Senator, my longtime confidant and trusted advisor. 
The first is one I caught of him as he sat up asleep on my chest at around 3 in the morning. I had my earphones in and was listening to a podcast from Turner Classic Movies (TCM). It’s about the making of the film Bonfire of The Vanities, based on the great Tom Wolfe (below) book and, apparently, reviled by every moviegoer but me and The Senator.
The Senator is a dear, determined companion who will listen attentively in the middle of the night  -- something insomniacs rarely encounter. Yes, my slumberspouse Martha slept through our conversation.
So, the second photo was shot when he realized I was awake. You can see his face a little better, right down to his pinkish nose.
The third household photo, from some time the next day, shows Porche Noel, my personal dog, on the furry couch cover where she’s been watching one of her favorite films. She adores Random Harvest with the great British actors Ronald Coleman and Greer Garson, the late Mrs. Buddy Fogelson of Dallas.
The Senator is curled up on the back of the couch as he usually does. Yep, curled up and asleep. He was up all night reading Tom Wolfe’s The Right Stuff, he explained, and needed to catch up on his sleep.

The cat stretched out next to the arm of the couch is Stevie Ray. He is a Gen A — Generation Alpha, born after 2012 — and I’m not yet sure of his feelings about movies or books. He may think reading and films are quaint relics of the Baby Boomer’s insomniacal lifestyle. 
Now, everybody get some sleep.
[DEAR READERS, Please send photos of your slumbering critters to [email protected] and we’ll post their stories in our weekend feature Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. You’ll be helping someone decide to make their home a cat’s or dog’s home, too. Or you’ll be helping an insomnia rise above the torture if he can just hire a cat that’ll sit quietly on his chest and hypnotically mew, “Sleeeepurrr. Sleeeeeepurrrr. Sleeeepurrr, you lunatic.”]
— Offer sleeping advice or catnap tips by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] and putting DOWN BY DAWN in the subject line. —-

THE STORIES OF ANIMALS, THE EFFORTS OF PEOPLE; CONTEMPLATE WRITERS & A SONG

EDITION OF FRIDAY AUG. 27, 2021 [PetPowellPress] We’re publishing this edition early because animals on the clock don’t know there’s a clock and humans do. 
Plus, news of the day — news of humans and of animals — is depressing enough for two days. 

THE FORT WORTH CHALLENGE
FOR THIS SUMMER DAY
Like several people, we got a note Thursday morning from Butch Burgin who linked us to a posting about Fort Worth Animal Care & Control’s challenges. This dog Barley was the focus and the note read, “At the Fort Worth shelter, and needs an adopter or foster home. Scared at first; when he realizes you won't hurt him, is all wiggles and kisses. FW has had over 4,600 intakes since May 1.....Without adoptions, lots will leave in black bags thru the back door.”

Now, that is an awful word picture, isn’t it?
You can see a video of Barley HERE.
Butch's note took us to the Facebook post by FWACC volunteer mainstay Kristen Barg Morrison. It noted Barley (#A48465537 at the shelter) is 6 months old, weighs 36 pounds and was a stray who “wasn’t growling out of aggression. It was fear because I assume he’s never had positive human affection before. Broke my heart. I hope a foster can get him so we can make sure he ends up in a perfect home. I love him.”
Here is a LINK to the Barley adoption page.

Cats? Fort Worth Cats? Heck, yeah. And this guy Calvino (#46573256) is free to a good home. He’s a smallish mixed breed though he sure does look like he might have some Russian Blue in that family tree.
And, of course, in that array of feline photos, that’s a clowder of shelter cats — tiny and larger — waiting for human hands to embrace them and give them a place where they can live out the natural cat destiny: managing humans. You know how cats are. Here’s THE LINK to seeing the scores and scores of Fort Worth’s dogs and cats. And, remember, no calling the shelter — communicate via the rescue tag address [email protected]
FOUND IN THE BACKYARD:

‘HOME WHERE NO ONE LIVES’
This astounding recovery of a momma and her 8 babies was in Lancaster, according to our reliable tipsters at 4-Legged Helpers, the non-profit that works to get more eyes and hearts looking at shelters with low human traffic.
Lots of puppy paw traffic at Lancaster, however. 
The note reads, “This sweet momma (right) and 8 big adorable puppy babies were found abandoned at a house. They appear to be Great Pyrenees although some have been shaved or had haircuts (probably due to the heat). Interestingly a puppy was found a few weeks ago that has the same type ‘haircut’ as one or two of these, so we are thinking from the same home and possibly someone breeding.  They are all VERY FRIENDLY, and LOVABLE, and adore other dogs and all people.  This is a great momma and pups.”

As we were prepping this in mid-afternoon, we learned that Operation Kindness has signed on to take four of these pups -- more to come on that later. In the meanwhile, to ask about helping Alexa and her babies, call or text 4-Legged Helpers at 214-949-2726 or email [email protected] (Same way to ask about Jeffrey in the photo below.)
The dogs had been “recently abandoned in a backyard of a house where no one lives,” the Helpers appeal read. It also had this heartfelt plea: “Alexa and her 8 babies all DESPERATELY need your IMMEDIATE HELP - PLEASE - HELP ONE - OR TWO - WE KNOW THIS IS TOO MANY FOR MOST RESCUE GROUPS AND THESE ARE BIG PUPPIES - RESCUING ONE WILL HELP SAVE THE OTHERS INCLUDING OTHER DOGS PICTURED BELOW - PLEASE, WE ARE BEGGING…”
And, of course, if you aren’t in the mood for an all-white dog, the shelter has a variety of other styles, including this sad-eyed fellow Jeffrey, a Boxer/Bulldog mix who has captured the hearts of shelter workers and advocates but just can’t seem to get anyone interested in giving him a home in spite of the fact that he is “sweet, lovable, affectionate and such a cute, cuddly boy.”
Keep up with 4-Legged Helper’s work and projects and animals by clicking on the non-profit’s FACEBOOK LINK.
KING THE GERMAN SHEPHERD:

TOO ACTIVE SO HE WAS DUMPED…
“Dumped” may be too harsh a word, but it’s pretty much accurate, in the judgment of your friendly, neighborhood, mad down to his toes writer.
But, let’s let a more reasonable person explain this situation with King.
Mesquite volunteer dog biographer Judi Brown says King, a 2-year-old German Shepherd, is “very active and alert. He was surrendered to the Mesquite Animal Shelter on 8/23 by a family that had only had him for two months.
“They surrendered him because of he was a more active dog than they had anticipated.
“King did run back-and-forth in the yard. Because he’s an active boy he would need to have a fair-sized yard to play in. However, it was very hot out and it wasn’t long before he was standing by the door wanting in by the AC. 

“He showed some interest in toys but did not follow through. He ran after balls but did not retrieve them. He sat for treats and took them gently. After he had run around for a while he did come to me. He answers to his name. He liked to have his ears scratched. His previous owners said that he was an indoors dog only. … This handsome boy weighs 60 pounds. King would do best with a very active family or a trainer that could channel his intellect and energy into possibly some sort of service dog. Bonus: he is already fixed!:
His shelter ID is #48504406. Use it when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected] to tag King.
[LARRY ASIDE: Somebody adopt this boy for good and write to us and let us know how he’s charmed your household and made your heart feel good about life!]
CONTEMPLATIONS
A HUMAN STORY; A VETERAN RESCUER SPEAKS; AND A SONG FOR THE DAY…
The great writer Rawlins Gilliland has captured the spirits of friendship, caring and understanding in a splendidly written story of a “homeless man in the woods.” You can read it — you probably SHOULD read it — on The Dallas Morning News website HERE. You’ll see in it the kind of heart that you see in people who work in animal rescue and find themselves helping people, too. 
...
AND THEN THERE’S THIS CHANGE: We also recommend reading something from Sherrie Tweedie Finch, who we first met many years ago at the outset of the greatness of Operation Kindness — then a small no-kill animal rescue facility existing temporarily in a commercial building. Sherrie was one of the founders — she, our pal Jonnie England and other big hearts. And, Sherrie has now posted a story about trying to, as she has done for decades, get a kitten some help at Operation Kindness.
Go to her Facebook page HERE and scroll down to the item that has this photo of Tinkerbell. Sherrie wrote, “Turns out they no longer accept strays from the same public they ask for donations from. Instead, they told me to take her to Dallas Animal Services! I'm flabbergasted and devastated.”
TAKING A MOMENT…. The day’s news — heartache from overseas — made me feel like listening to something other than news reports. I decided on some Tom T. Hall. So, here’s a song with a peaceful presentation. Click HERE. I apologize for any non-sequitur commercials. Everybody’s making a buck in this world but you and me -- I just buy Lotto Texas tickets.
—- Offer an opinion by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] —-

CELEBRATING TWO DAYS; CITING OPPORTUNITIES TO HELP; CONSIDERING MOVIES FROM 1957

EDITION OF THURSDAY, AUG. 26, 2021 [PetPowellPress] We’re going to celebrate a couple of “Days” before we get to our usual mission. There is a strong link uniting the two special days.

First, many of you don’t need to be told that August 26 is Women’s Equality Day. The 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution became effective on Aug. 26, 1920, giving American women the right to vote. 
Wait! Not ALL American women.
Here’s a link to a Time Magazine article explaining that the amendment didn’t remove state laws that kept Black Americans from voting — poll taxes, literacy tests, etc. 
QUESTION: You think that today’s Congress is slow on key issues? Giving women the vote first came before Congress in 1878 and the 19th amendment stalled around until it finally passed both houses in 1919. It was certified on Aug. 26, 1920. And, it occurs to my male slow-on-the-uptakeness that, son of a gun, women have now had the vote in America for 101 years. And, as some of those “ol’ boys” feared more than a century ago, the country hasn’t gone to hell or tiptoed on the edge of it because a woman has been president. [LARRY ASIDE: Something yet to come! But it’s coming. If Wally Funk can at-long-last ride a rocket to space, the White House is definitely an earthbound destination for some politically-minded, smarter-than-the-average-candidate woman, right?”]
As a guy born decades after that 19th Amendment was the law of the land, it is impossible for me to even imagine a time in this Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave when women were forbidden to vote.
 Ban women from voting? That’s nuts, isn’t it. [LARRY ASIDE: That’s a Women’s Day bit of artwork from 2019 — I picked it because that young woman is one of my heroes. I hope you know her story and know of her work and ambitions. Just google Malala — you shouldn't miss her story. She's not a Texas woman, but she's tough enough to be.]

About the right to vote, a solemn duty: My granddaughters, Hannah and Emily, were ready to vote BEFORE they reached the “age of electoral accountability” or whatever it’s called these days. My daughter-in-law Erinn? She’s been voting since her first breath, I’m almost sure — she arrived with a devotion to American rights and disgust of American wrongs. And my funandpoliticspouse Martha has cast so many votes through the years that I think she has carpal tunnel syndrome in her forefinger — you know, from lecturing me and making point after point. 
Those four voters have one more thing in common: They’re animal nuts.
So what’s the celebration connection? August 26 is also National Dog Day, created in 2004 by animal welfare advocate Colleen Paige. We learned of its origin via the Holiday Insights online calendar.
Here is a reality connection between women of power and dogs in a bit of a fix. In the animal welfare world, there are huge numbers of women coast-to-coast (and around the world, too) who are involved in advocacy for dogs and cats and other animals. In fact, as a longtime observer of animal advocacy and rescue, I’m willing to bet that the women-to-men ratio is something like 60 percent women to 40 percent men (or worse).
If it were not for women, animal rescue and animal advocacy would collapse. Fall flat. Fail. It would be an American tragedy. 
Look around, Dear Readers, at the rescue organizations led by women, fueled by women, guided by women who have no fear whether trying to rescue a dog or cat off a freeway or when facing down some nitwit city council member who thinks “animal shelter” is another phrase for “warehouse for animals” and “euthanasia” is a “mercy killing in a shelter” not just a way to open a cage for the next unlucky beast. 
So, on this particular August 26 we celebrate Women because women lead the way and we celebrate our dogs because they can bring us together after the political arguments the guys lose. [LARRY FYI: That's Wendy with my fearlessspouse Martha who pulled her car over, got out and had a stern conversation with some people about the future of this dog and rescued the "puppy girl" from an awful situation on the mean streets of Oak Cliff. They're devoted to each other.]
SPEAKING OF WOMEN
AND THEIR POWER…
You may be keeping up with Pen Farthing and his efforts to get animals out of Afghanistan. Here’s a story from The Daily Mail in England about Prime Minister Boris Johnson, at the behest of his wife, Carrie, changing a decision by the Minister of Defence and getting some exit help for Farthing and the shelter in Kabul. The story says “69 staff and 200 animals” will benefit from this power move by a woman with a sense of politics and decency.
Click HERE.
ROWLETT HAS A DOG
THAT NEEDS HELP NOW…
This guy with the ugly back is PATCH (#54964). Here’s how we learned about him and his back problem. We got a note from our pal Karen Lee of the pro-animal  Barkleyworld.com. She got the note from Roberta Womack, founder and prez of Lucy’s Lost Loved Ones, the Chihuahua-saving organization.
And Roberta got it from Victoria Barham, the Animal Placement Specialist at the City of Rowlett Shelter. 
She wrote, “We have a standard Dachshund that is in need. He came in with what appears to be an old burn down his back and it is now a skin infection. We are treating the infection, but he needs to go to a rescue to further his treatment. He is super sweet and very outgoing. Loves to go on walks and our volunteers love him. Our vet did not vaccinate him due to the infection. We are very full as well and need him out ASAP. “
Contact the shelter by calling 972-412-6219. Email [email protected]
[LARRY ASIDE: Patch is the only male in this story and he’s the individual whose depending on women to get him out of this fix!]
LET’S TALK MORE DOGS
ON THEIR NATIONAL DAY
Our sources for the bios and photos of the dogs in the next two collections, and the sources are women. Yes. Ain’t no guys typing these reports of shelters dogs desperate for happy homes.
FIRST WE CITE THE DOGS SPOTTED
BY THE WOMEN OF 4-LEGGED HELPERS
Oh, boy, look at this guy, Cash, who is listed as a Chihuahua/Terrier mix who “May have a little Corgi in there,” according to his bio from 4-Legged helpers.
He’s among the dogs waiting for a good home or a rescue at the Lancaster Animal Shelter. Cash is about a year old and, of course, house-trained. “He is so incredibly affectionate and lovering — a really great boy!” says the note sent by 4-Legged Helpers Laura Macias and Leighann Hayden.

Then there’s Koby, a German Shepherd who is about a year old and who was “brought to the shelter by someone that had to move due to the economic conditions,” the Helpers wrote. He’s “so very sweet. Very loving. Adores other dogs — male and female. Loves all people. He is a really great young dog hoping for a forever home.”
There’s a $200 donation to the 501c3 rescue that will take over the care of Delaney, a female Black German Shepherd in the Lancaster shelter. The Helpers’ note reads, “We cannot begin to say enough great things about this dog. Beautiful, smart, sweet as can be. Her big pup Dillon was pulled by rescue, but she is still hoping and waiting. She is such a beautiful dog….”
Jakob has been at the shelter for a while. He was “found out and about on a playground, having the best time just like a little kid — adores children — all people. Great boy.” 
the young Lab mix is sweet, cute — all the good things you expect to hear about a dog who fits into assorted situations in life. The Helpers say Jakob “loves female dogs, so would be great in a home with girl dogs or by himself as the only dog — either would work great.”
And that brings us to Roman, a Lab fellow who has “the prettiest white teeth and always wears a sweet goofy grin,” the Helpers say. And they say, “He has long adorable ears.” Why is he in a shelter? “He was brought to the shelter by someone who could no longer care for him and he is a really great dog and such a sweet boy…Barks at other dogs right now, but someone should be able to fix that — he is a young dog. Needs that foster or willing adoptor or rescue. He adores people and, of course, completely adores and is awesome with all children.”
To help these dogs or any animals in the Lancaster shelter, contact the 4-Legged Helpers by calling or texting Laura at 214-949-2726 or email [email protected]
Keep up with the life-saving work of 4-Legged Helpers by going to the non-profit’s Facebook page HERE.
 
MEANWHILE IN MESQUITE,
BONNIE & TANNER WAIT…
These dogs are among the many animals waiting for good homes or responsible rescues at the Mesquite Animal Shelter. 
Volunteer shelter dog biographer Debra Chisholm wrote, “I have named this cutesy mixed-breed pup Bonnie.  She arrived as a stray at the Mesquite Animal Shelter on 8/19.  Bonnie weighs 20 pounds and is approximately 4 months old.  For such a young pup she walks quite nicely on a leash.  She is nervous and uneasy in the shelter environment.  Bonnie is calm and gentle and has a low-key personality at this point.  She does not jump on you.  She is a friendly and sweet girl.  Bonnie enjoys treats and will sit continually to obtain them.  She likes chewing on toys.   She liked jumping on the bench in the room where I did her photo shoot and she was quite interested in checking out the smells.” She’s #48483076 — use that number for IDing her when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected]

Those contact points also work when your asking about this guy Tanner. How is that for a dog with a very elegant style of walking! We got the into on Tanner from volunteer dog biographer Judi Brown.
She writes that Tanner is “cautiously friendly at first but if you’re patient it will pay off because once trust is built he becomes your BFF! Tanner is a year old, 41-pound Lab/Whippet mix that came to the Mesquite Shelter on 8/17 as a stray. …He’s a handsome boy with a majestic, show-dog stance. When I first went into Tanner’s kennel he was cautiously friendly and was very unsure of the leash. Because he was skittish, I was reluctant to take his leash off. When I reached for the top of his head he cowered, and he ducked when I made a sudden movement.

"At first he explored the yard with his nose and stayed away from me. However he gradually started coming to me when I talked to him and bribed him with treats! He does sit for treats and takes them  gently. By the end of the photo session he even put his head on my lap and let me scratch his ears. And as I was taking him in he literally pushed his body close to mine!
“I felt like he was saying, ‘I want to be your friend.’ … After he was put back in his kennel and I walked past him he gave me a happy bark!!
“There’s no doubt if somebody is patient with Tanner and builds trust he will be a very loyal companion. He would love to lay at your feet in the house while you’re watching TV and have his own little bed beside yours at night!”

For Tanner, use his ID 48468445 when you call the shelter at 972-2166283 or email [email protected] ofmesquite.com.
At this Mesquite Shelter LINK 
 you can see more adoptable dogs and adoptable cats, too, including this little girl, Mom (#48208461), a year and a couple of months old. She’s small and has been in the shelter since July 13.
CONTEMPLATIONS
IDLE THOUGHTS IN SUMMER
I mowed the back yard Wednesday afternoon and as I type this my eyes are still trying to adjust from being filled with the sweat of an idiot. …
Anybody ever get hooked on detective shows? My current 4: Monk; Psych; The Closer; Major Crimes. The detective show I miss is Sherlock, starring Benedict Cumberbatch. That was one wildly enjoyable British show. Guess they’re not makin’ any more of ‘em. Might have to actually re-start reading books….
I miss going to movies. I can’t remember the last film I saw in what passes for a real theater — not a real fan of multiplexes. I love old-style stand-alone theaters with owners who took pride in the presentations and the “house.” Best movie seen in a one-screen theater? I’ll focus on 1957 and name The Admirable Crichton about a butler who saves a shipwrecked family; or Not of This Earth about a man from Mars threatening the people of our planet; or — and this title tells it all: I Was a Teenage Werewolf. Starred Michael Landon in the title role — later he moved to TV and was Little Joe on Bonanza, the dad on Little House on the Prairie and an angel on Highway to Heaven. I’ve heard his shows never filmed during a full moon.
— Offer movie tips by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] and put ATTACK OF THE CRAB MONSTERS in the subject line. —-

IN A TIME OF RELENTLESS ISSUES, WE CITE THE NEED TO SAVE ANIMALS; AND WE HAVE CONTEMPLATIONS

EDITION OF TUESDAY AFTERNOON/WEDNESDAY AUGUST 24-25, 2021 [PetPowellPress] We live in a relentless time, don’t we. Relentless viruses, relentless international issues, relentless dieting..well some relentlessness is more personal than others. One thing petfans can depend on is the relentless two-way affection between you and your critters. This opening story may demonstrate the two-way relationship. Keep reading:
THANOS — MENTIONED BEFORE,
BUT STILL NOT ADOPTED…
Gail Whelan, our longtime tipster with the Companion-Animal Network, began her note in this manner: WHY IS THIS GORGEOUS DOG NOT ADOPTED???”
 He’s Thanos, 2 1/2-years-old, a purebred German Shepherd who weighs in at 100 pounds. He’s up-to-date on everything except a home.
He adores kids, is house-trained, knows commands, walks on a leash and, is “almost perfect in every way,” Gail says. Also, she writes, “He is one of the smartest dogs I have ever encountered.”
Get ready to think about that last quote.
Gail writes, “Here is a testament to his intellect.  His foster mom has had a bad cold and terrible allergies the past week or so.  He saw her coughing and using the Kleenex from the box on the coffee table.  Yesterday she was putting on her makeup in the bedroom and started having another sneezing fit.  Thanos went into the living room and brought back a Kleenex from the box!!   SMART SMART SMART!”

Think you’re the right person for Thanos? Email [email protected]. You don’t have to have allergies to qualify as a loving human for a loving dog.
THE FACES IN SHELTERS —
SOME NEEDING HOMES
The folks at 4-Legged Helpers reach into several area shelters to try to help the inhabitants get a break in an otherwise dismal life as an unwanted stray or dumped dog in Dallas/Fort Worth. 
Here are two of the many animals the Helpers are trying to place in the hearts of loving humans. (Catch up with the Helpers’ postings on their Facebook page HERE.
We open with this beautiful young Terrier mix named Marigold. She’s available in the DFW area. A year old and “so sweet,” she weighs only 33 pounds and is full grown. “A great medium size,” the Helpers say. Also, she’s “extremely loving, and enjoys walking, running, playing and adores all people and all dogs. Fully vaccinated, fixed, and microchipped."
The big handsome dog? That’s Brody. He was found injured, unable to get out of a ditch without the help of a human. He’s healthy now and unable to find a good home without the help of humans.
To ask about adopting or helping either of these animals or any animal in the “sphere of helping” that the Helpers have established, call or text 214-949-2726 or Facebook MSG Laura Macias or email [email protected]

HOW IS IT THAT ‘ADORABLE’
CAN BE REJECTED BY ANYONE?
This guy — cute and sweet anytime you snap a photo of him — is in a bit of a spot. We learned about him from Mesquite Animal Shelter volunteer dog biographer Judi Brown.
“Isn’t Yogi adorable?” she began her evaluation. You know, she and fellow dog writer Debra Chisholm get to meet and enjoy every dog they write about. 
So, when Judi says something nice about Yogi it’s because she’s met him. 
“He arrived at the Mesquite Animal Shelter on 8/14 as a stray,” she says.
Here’s the wretched part of his story: Judi writes, “He did have a rescue tag but once the rescue found out he was HEARTWORM POSITIVE  they released the tag. I am hopeful that somebody will see his cute pictures and read the positive write up and will decide he’s worth the extra time and expense to get him back on the road to good health. Because he is worth it!
“With his sweet, loving, affectionate, calm, gentle personality there is no doubt that he would make someone a loyal, devoted companion! He’s a lap dog wannabe and if the truth be known he prefers to snuggle in your neck. His corkscrew tail wags constantly. He follows you around looking up at you with his big brown eyes. He didn’t seem to understand the sit command but instead did a little dance (see last picture). He takes treats gently. He did his business as soon as he got out into the yard. He was too timid so did not walk well on the leash. He preferred to be carried.”

Yogi weighs 14 pounds but will weigh less once he’s “fixed.” 
And he needs to be rid of those heart parasites. That will require the devotion of a loving human or a loving rescue group. Probably lived outside, Judi says, so, she writes, “He told me he wants to be an inside dog with his new family.”

To ask about helping Yogi, use his ID #48448625 when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected] 

PLANO, CLEAR THE SHELTERS
& MAYBE SOME ADOPTABLES
The 7th annual “Clear The Shelters” drive is officially stretching from Monday the 23rd to September 19. Fees may vary from whatever shelter you visit, but “no fee” is the most popular price. Check with the shelter you’re going to for that facility’s adoption schedule.
 (That's Plano's great artwork -- colorful.)
The Plano Animal Shelter is celebrating Clear the Shelter through the entire period. At the Plano shelter site online, you’ll read, “Adoption fees will be half price from Monday, August 23, through Sunday, September 12. Adoption fees will only be waived from Monday, September 13, to Sunday, September 19.” You can see the shelter’s adoptables by going to plano.gov/226/Animal-Services. Call the Plano Animal Shelter at 972-769-4360.
We went to the “adoptables” listings on Tuesday and found these. The first two photos are of Prissy The Cat (A180746) who recently had kittens and is described as being playful and sweet. The shelter also describes “strays” as “lost and never found” by their human. Next to Prissy the cat is Peter Rabbit (A181814), bunny who also was listed as “lost and never found.”
The next two photos are of a couple of dogs — Pumpernickel (A180712) is about 13 months old, smart and “loves to play.” He was “lost and never found by his owner” unlike the dog Mulan (A180224), a 7-month old energetic girl who is “crate-trained and “too much” for small kids” but “very sweet.” Lost and never found? Nope. Her human surrendered her.
HOW DOES STRAYDOG
HANDLE CLEAR THE SHELTERS?

First we’ll mention that on Thursday, from 4 p.m. to 8-.m, the Lockwood Distillery in Richardson will host a “Gifting Party” in support of the Straydog Inc. “Pups in Pearls Gala." The Lockwood event is described as a “pop-up market with several specialty venders and gift cards will be available to purchase as gifts for the Gala’s silent auction.” You’ll get to meet some of the Straydo animals at the event. See how to donate by clicking HERE.
That brings us to Straydog’s plan for the annual Clear the Shelters event. The Near East Texas-based shelter/sanctuary has picked Sept. 11 for it’s shelter-clearing event — 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. that Saturday at the PetSmart Plano, 6204, W. Park Blvd. 
As an example of some of the animals available at no cost from Straydog that day are these three. Gigi, is the 2-year-old Pharaoh Hound with the pointy ears and tail who happens to be the mommy of Jersey and Gemma. Gigi was rescued with the pups. She can sit for treats, play with toys and “gets along great with other dogs.” 
Jersey and Gemma are both 4 months old and follow in their mom’s toy-enjoying, and sweet and gentle ways. Jersey is said to be “very affectionate and loves to be held, but is still a little squiggly.”
And Gemma is “sweet and gentle” and “loves to be held in your lap and is very affectionate.” 

All of these dogs are available now at Straydog Inc. See more of the Straydog dogs and how to adopt them at THIS LINK.
CONTEMPLATIONS
THINGS A PERSON SEES…
Here’s an exchange on a neighborhood bulletin page in the Metrosprawl. One person posted, “What is your excuse now? Pfizer has been approved by FDA.” And someone responded, “Do you treat people that smoke the same way you think about people who don't want the vaccine?” Contemplate that exchange. 

Do you buy food from a restaurant that lets you watch it being prepared? On another post, someone wrote critically about “hygiene standards.” The angry person wrote, “It’s one thing not wearing mask but apparently the [front counter preparation staff] no longer wears gloves when packaging food or ice cream. Their employee … (who was working the register) even cut open my banana and held it with her hand and put it in the tray. It would be one thing… I guess… had she only been working the ice cream station but she was working the register. I asked her to please wear gloves or wash her hands; she refused. Aren’t gloves the normal / required when you work in fast food and handle food that isn’t going to be cooked? Is this not required to wear gloves anymore or to wash your hands after handling money?” So, what happened? The writer left and went to another restaurant where, she wrote, “thankfully they still wear gloves and masks.” [NOTE TO PERSON IN OPENING PARAGRAPH: No smoking in either of these restaurants. Just a cheerful FYI.]
…. We’re on the mailing list of what is allegedly a daily humor newsletter and on Tuesday we got a copy of a “Laugh of the Day” that would have worked better during the Olympics. Control your groans as you read this: “What do you call a nervous javelin thrower? Shakespeare.” If the Bard of Avon were still with us, he might rethink this famous line from Henry VI, Part 2, Act IV, Scene 2: “The first thing we do, let’s kill all the lawyers.” [LARRY ASIDE: I covered a lot of courts and legal stories in my newspaper career. I happen to adore lawyers — some of the smartest and most engaging people I’ve ever known. Can’t remember a one who threw the javelin. I think I knew one who threw a javalina, but that’s a story for another time.]
— Offer opinions, punchlines or cautions by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] and putting ‘OBJECTION’ in the subject line. —-

GOING ONLINE TO LEARN ABOUT KABUL'S ANIMALS AND RESCUE EFFORTS

EXTRA EDITION OF TUESDAY, AUG. 24, 2021 [PetPowellPress] The situation in Afghanistan is so lousy — and changing, of course, much too quickly for print media to keep up with. So, you have to watch TV or go to the internet to see what you can find.
We’ve been trying to locate rock-solid info about the state of animals in Kabul because we get notes about donating to saving them from this storm of diplomacy/terror/anxiety/horror. No confirmations of such places yet, though, we did find stories of trying to save the animals.
I’ve collected some of the “fresh reports” here. There is a conflict between Pen Farthing, the former United Kingdom Marine who runs the small animal shelter in Kabul, and the British Secretary of Defence Ben Wallace. 
I have collected several articles and offer the LINKS to them below -- with their summarizing (and sometimes long) headlines so that you may select the articles that interest you. (That's a photo of Farthing and one of the Kabul dogs -- it was posted with a yahoo!news story).
Among these stories is a report that Farthing became upset when, as he waited for the OK to move animals to safety, he saw a car being rolled onto an “escape plane” instead of people and animals being allowed to fly away to safety. 
And there is a story of how Secretary Wallace “rebukes” a “confused” Farthing. Here's our list of recent stories:
HEADLINE: Defence Secretary: I can’t guarantee Afghanistan animal shelter staff evacuation before August 31. The story is from the overnight (in the U.S.) edition of the London Evening-Standard HERE.
HEADLINE (online!): “Military plane carrying armoured car back from Kabul 'was filled with cargo instead of more passengers because it had to take off to meet time slot', it is claimed, after ministers were accused of 'prioritising vehicle over pets or people’" And that LINK TO THE DAILY MAIL IS HERE.
HEADLINE: Pen Farthing: ‘I won’t prioritise pets over people,’ Ben Wallace says as ex-Marine claims Kabul flight blocked. THIS IS THE LINK to the iNews-UK report from earlier today.
HEADLINE: Afghanistan: Ex-Marine Pen Farthing says he will have to put animals to sleep on Kabul runway after UK 'abandoned' his charity. Here’s the LINK to this Sky News report from earlier today.
HEADLINE: “EX-MARINE SAYS BID TO FLY CHARITY STAFF AND 100 ANIMALS FROM KABUL ‘BLOCKED BY MoD’” That’s the headline on a yahoo!news story posted at 4:16 a.m. today U.S. time . Here’s THE LINK.
CONTEMPLATIONS
AFGHAN HISTORY AND FEATHERS…
The year 1861 inspired this research. What I discovered in my “light research” on Wikipidia was this British situation — and, of course, I also found pages and pages of “historic conflicts” over this land of Afghanistan. A 20-year war is barely a blip from a gnat's sneeze on the Richter Scale of history -- unless your American was one who faithfully gave all to the nation's call.

Here’s the history quote from Wikipedia: “The first Anglo-Afghan War (1839–1842) resulted in the destruction of a British army; causing great panic throughout British India and the dispatch of a second British invasion army.[120] The Second Anglo-Afghan War (1878–1880) resulted from the refusal by Emir Shir Ali (reigned 1863 to 1866 and from 1868 to 1879) to accept a British mission in Kabul.”
…
Many people said a version of this, but we’ll go with one of the more recent expressions. This one came from the British leader Winston Churchill in a 1948 speech to the House of Commons: “Those who fail to learn from history are condemned to repeat it.”
Humans, constant failures in the life course “Learning From History.”
We have only hope and prayers that things will work out safely, smartly. 
In 1861 — and this is why I am citing this poem: Emily Dickinson wrote it in 1861 — what was going on in America? Study that in school, did ya?
And, I just pointed our above that in 1861 Afghanistan was between wars. 
T
The American poet wrote (citing the opening 4 lines):


“Hope is the thing with feathers -
That perches in the soul -
And sings the tune without the words -
And never stops - at all…”


Yes, perhaps "hope... never stops at all." Read the rest of the poem on the Poetry Foundation website HERE.
Keep your feathers active; your prayers strong and remember the global history for the sake of the generations yet to come.
— Offer opinions by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] —-

A TUESDAY CAVALCADE OF OPPORTUNITIES TO HELP DOGS 'N' CATS 'N' THEIR FANS

EDITION OF TUESDAY, AUGUST 24, 2021 [PetPowellPress] Out topics today include a beautiful cat with a “tilt” and a “scared” Husky with a pressing challenge in Bridgeport. We have, also, Mesquite challenges over a wooden fence. And there’s a beautiful dog Mandy in an appeal from The Bayou City. Please read on! We’ll also get to Contemplations, y’all. 

THIS GIRL FLO IS
A CAT WITH A ‘TILT’
Ah, Dallas Cat Lady has a “unique little girl who sees the world sideways and there’s nothing with that,” reads the introduction we got to this girl Flo. 
We got in touch with Michelle Troop, spokeshuman for Dallas Cat Lady in the Flo story. Read on:
 Flo’s birthday is November 1, 2020 — so she’s still a kid. Her bio reads, "Flo is a fluffy princess who enjoys to play and run! Flo loves other cats, and to hang out on the couch while you watch TV! When she is not relaxing in the sunbeams on her favorite window perch, Flo enjoys making new friends with anyone, playing chase and going after that laser pointer!
“Flo does have a titled head; her vet believes that this tilt was caused by a trauma that occurred before her rescue and has no impact on her daily life!”

To ask about auditioning to adopt Flo, email [email protected] gmail.com. The organization rule is you have to be over 25 to adopt — provide some ID when you apply. The fee is $85 — just about enough to cover the initial care of a rescued cat.
Michelle told us, “We can always use donations to cover the vetting we've done for her and for all the other sick and injured cats we are caring for. People can donate on our website dallascatlady.org/donate." 

Dallas Cat Lady has been around since 2006 — finds homes for cats, kittens and “a few dogs.” Michelle’s note explained, “We work with local shelters to give cats more time to find just the right home. We have placed over 10,000 kitties with new families. Dallas Cat Lady is also a key resource in educating the public on the basics of the TNR process. Through education, the goal is to reduce the homeless cat population even more with more people participating in the process.” 
Leigh Sessler is the Executive Director. If you want to get involved with helping, Michelle says, email [email protected]
The organization website is dallascatlady.org and the Facebook page is HERE.
MANDY: HER SCARY STORY IS ON
THE BRINK OF A HAPPY ENDING
Our longtime Houston tipster Alexandra Kelsey wrote this explanation of how this dog Mandy has come to be absolutely ready to enjoy a wonderful home. Here’s what AK wrote:

“That old Forrest Gump was on to something when he said that life is like a box of chocolates and that you never know what you’re going to get!
“Big Mandy is living proof of Forrest’s wisdom.  Summer 2021 saw Big Mandy living a one-foot-in-front-of-the-other existence. One more step and she might find water or food.  One more step and she might find shelter from torrential rains or blazing sun. She never could have imagined that one of those steps would be into the air-conditioned car of an animal rescuer.
“So, here our girl is…rescued from the hard life of a stray out in the middle of nowhere, now looking forward to being someone’s best friend.
“Big Mandy has captured the heart of her rescue team.  She’s a big old girl with the heart of a puppy.  She loves people but Big Mandy knows from her time as a hobo that it’s always good to get to know people before you go all-in.  Mandy is the kind of dog who makes you feel honored that she trusts you and chooses you over all others.
“This precious girl is only two years old and has years of love to give.  She has been fully vetted and she is heartworm negative.  If Big Mandy could talk, she’d have stories to tell, and she could tell us who her parents are.  Failing that, her rescue team thinks that Big Mandy is an American Staffordshire mix.  She weighs 62 lbs.
“If you would like to know more about this precious girl, email [email protected]."

[DEAR READERS: And now we wait for the writer AK to present that happy ending for Big Mandy’s story.]
THE EU PRESSURE IS ON
MCKINLEY IN BRIDGEPORT
This Siberian Husky McKinley has gotten a reprieve, but the clock is still ticking. He’s under the watchful eye of 4-Legged Helpers in the small Bridgeport Animal Shelter northwest of Fort Worth. 
The Helpers report that the shelter “was planning on euthanizing him today (Monday).” 
Plans changed, the Helpers report but there’s still pressure. The shelter has “offered to hold off one week and if we can get donations together we can get a vet and pay for McKinley being fixed, vaccinated and his eyes checked over.”
The eye problem is “he has what appears to be an injured eye and is not seeing properly.” The note says the problem “could be a mole or skin tag” that is causing issues and aggravating his already uneasy attitude in the shelter. (Donate via PayPal at [email protected] and put “McKinley” in the comment. Or email 4-Legged Helpers’ Laura Macias at [email protected]. for additional ways to donate.
To help any of these dogs, email Laura at that address or call or text 214-949-2726 or Facebook MSG Laura Macias.  Keep those contact points handy because they’re good for these dogs, too.
And, as the Helpers point out, adopting these dogs from the crowded shelter will help take some of the euthanasia pressure off McKinley.

This relaxed guy Austin is a Lab/Boxer mix — young, 68 pounds and a “WONDERFUL DOG,” the Helpers say. “really good boy. Exactly the size of a Lab or Boxer — very healthy — looks well-taken care of.”

This girl Alyssa is “calm, gentle, lovable — just darling in every way,” the Helpers’ note reads. “”Loves and adores everyone and everything. This is the best girl ever.”
And Chace, with his stunning eyes, weighs only 31 pounds and is “very young.” The bio reads, “Has to be some of the prettiest blue eyes we have ever seen on any dog! Super cute, sweet and extremely lovable.”
DODGER SURRENDERED BECAUSE
HE WAS ‘BITING A WOODEN FENCE
Ah, the challenges humans face: Do we dump the dog or fix the fence? Alas….read on.

This story has two parts. Dodger, that Pittie mix, was surrendered on August 6 to the Mesquite Shelter because he was “biting a wood fence,” the surrendering human said. Our tipster, the volunteer dog biographer Debra Chisholm, says the year-old, 65-pound Dodger “was very uneasy and scared when first arriving and has been a work in progress.  However, he is coming around and seeming much more relaxed and comfortable.  He walks very well on a leash--no pulling.  He knows the sit command.  Dodger does not jump on you.  Former owners stated that the two dogs were exclusively outdoor dogs and were not socialized.”

Wait a sec. Two dogs? Yes, says Debra. It seems that Dodger came in with a dog named Chester who, like Dodger, had spent most of his life outside, away from humans. So, when dumped into a strange environment, Chester became unsettled. 
We have no photos of him, but the report is he is “still unsociable and hard to manage.”
Debra, a veteran of seeing animals in shelters, wrote, “I admit that I am fearful of what his future holds. Some dogs absolutely are so ruined that they can never recover. As I mentioned in my eval of Dodger, these  are two dogs who were completely unsocialized and not allowed in the house.”
There is opportunity to save Dodger for sure. He’s making progress. Volunteers have been able to work with him and, Debra says, “the progress he has made is really amazing….is now one tail-wagging friendly boy who enjoys receiving attention.”
To ask about helping Dodger, use his ID #48392724 when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected] Perhaps, if you have a way to help Chester, you should contact the shelter via email.
You can see more Mesquite dogs and, also, cats and kittens by clicking on the shelter link HERE.
CONTEMPLATIONS
MY CAT, THE GOV'S DOG, WEATHER
That is a mugshot of an office cat on the job. He has a calming affect on the immediate area. I’m even nodding off be…….tween, uh, vowels and consonants. Office Cat William Powell is named in honor of the film star of the same name and similar elegance. His nose is pink when he’s awake. I swear. In the patois of my native Northeast Texas, “Ah luvat ol’ cayut.” William cannot speak that lingo, though now and then I hear his Texan come out in a congenial baritone expression of “Meeew, ya’w.”
AND NOW A DOG STORY from the Times-Union in Albany, N.Y. It’s about Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s mixed-breed dog Captain being, the headline suggests, sort of “abandoned” at the Executive Mansion by the gov. That guy only thought he had problems until he offended the animal community, right? Here’s the LINK. And here’s the final paragraph: "He will only urinate indoors," Cuomo said three years ago. "He has some kind of climate sensitivity that overpowers his bowel movements.” He’s talking, of course, about the dog, not about any other politician. I’m glad none of our animals have “climate sensitivities.”
…How about a seasonal song to get us through the August heat wave? O, the weather outside is….wait. TRY THIS ONE.
—— Be kind to animals. Offer opinions by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] and putting SAVE ‘EM ALL in the subject line. —-

ON MONDAY: TREES, DOGS, CATS, PEOPLE, POETRY AND THE SENATOR'S PHILOSOPHY

EDITION OF MONDAY, SEPT. 23, 2021 [PetPowellPress] We’ll get to this photograph in Contemplations. First, we have some animals to help. And, of course, people to help who are helping the animals. 

I was going to title this photograph "TRYING TO BLEND IN" but I decided, instead, to call it "Posing: If That's a Tree I'm a Runway Model." It rises majestically over an actual "forest" of Texas trees, just west of Arlington on I-30. More later. First this serious situation.
AN INTERNATIONAL QUESTION
ABOUT ANIMALS IN A BAD SPOT
Does anyone have a surefire way of determining which of many websites is the authentic way to get threatened animals out of Afghanistan, i.e., shelters purporting to be in Kabul?

Skeptic? Maybe I am. But one does want to be precise with trustworthy info.
Please send your suggestions for verified animal rescue efforts to [email protected]. If you’ve been around a while, you know that scammers know that a tug at the heartstrings can easily open pocketbooks during times of crises, i.e., hurricanes, volcanos, wars, etc. Scamming "animal people" is about as low as a crook can get. When's the last time you heard that an animal rescuer or shelter volunteer had won Lotto Texas or invented a computer program that grows money like a post-middle-aged man grows a waistline!?
A WEEKEND MESSAGE CAME
AND THEN SO DID THE PUPS!
We spotted this note from the great Ginger Leach of Fort Worth Animal Care & Control not in time to help with cleaning projects on Saturday, but we suspect this could be an on-going need in the world of animal shelters. 
So, here’s the deal: The FWACC’s south campus needed volunteers to help clean the 40 outside kennels. Volunteers are eternally helpful at an animal shelter that works to “save ‘em all.”
 And Ginger added this key P.S. to her note: “Bring some adopters or rescues, too! We are over capacity and out of space.”
On Sunday, Ginger posted this notice on the FWACC Facebook page. See that dog? That German Shepherd? Ginger wrote, “Gladiola is surprising us with puppies today!
They need out ASAP!! ****RESCUE NEEDED**** A#48330485
“This mama started giving birth this morning here at the shelter — so far she has two and we’ll check to see if more have come. She is very sweet, easy to handle. Needs out of the shelter ASAP!!” 
To offer to help, don’t call the shelter: email [email protected]. 

THIS MAY BE A FIRST
AS FAR AS ‘BREEDS’

This guy Dakota is “a breed apart.” OK, he’s a mixed breed apart. I’m almost positive that in the time we’ve been writing animal stories — from around the summer of 1965 through this very day — we’ve never before typed these words “Perro de Pastor Mallorquin.” (Here’s a LINK that explains this shepherd dog!)
 We got the description of Dakota from her biographer, Mesquite Animal Shelter volunteer dog writer Debra Chisholm. She explains that “handsome Dakota” is a mixed breed and that her dog scanner app “identified” him to be a mix of “Perro de Pastor Mallorquin/German Shepherd/Flat-Coated Retriever”
The bottom line is he’s a 2-year-od, 65-pound, not-neutered dog who came into the shelter as a stray on August 17. Debra says “there is a lot to like about this boy” and notes that he “walks well on a leash” and showed no aggression toward other dogs, indicated he’s house-broken, has a “sweet temperament,” and this: “He has a mellow personality and is a calm and well-mannered boy.”
Use his ID (#48468556) when you cal the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected]


In the meantime, keep that email address and the phone number handy because you may want to ask the shelter about this guy Tank. He’s a mixed-beed fellow who came in as a “surrender” on May 25 and, Debra reports, “The long confinement has affected him so that he is going a bit kennel crazy.” He’s about 2 1/2, weighs 59 pounds and is neutered. He previously was an outside dog. So when he’s let out for exercise (or an interview with Debra), he’s happily jetting around the yard. That discoloration on his forehead is something that will heal. He’s potty-trained, knows the “sit command” and “likes chew toys and fetch.” He’s lively and active, but also “friendly and oh-so-sweet,” Debra says. His number is 47842054.
The volunteer dog biographer Judi Brown spotted this Earhound at Mesquite. She’s Audrey (#48457864), a 10-month-old, 30-pound Pittie mix who arrived on the 16th as a stray. Obviously an Earhound. Judi writes, “She has really interesting coloring. I couldn’t decide whether she was a chocolate brown or a dark gray. Come in and meet her and see what you think. Audrey is very alert and likes to explore. She’s also very adventuresome and loves to climb. She had a fascination with our shelter window and the window ledge. She’s quite agile and was good at maintaining her balance on the window ledge. Dogs are sometimes entered into agility contests. This would probably be something that would be a perfect fit for her! She was primarily interested in exploring but did come around to let me scratch her ears. I even was rewarded with a few kisses.”
While Judi may have had a problem deciding on Audrey’s coloring, she had no problem with this dog. Judi wrote, “Dottie came by her name naturally. Just look at her! She is a well-mannered southern lass that arrived at the Mesquite Animal Shelter on 8/16 as a stray.  When I first went into her kennel she was very timid and kept her tail tucked. She kept watching me. She was obviously checking me out and I obviously passed muster because then she relaxed and stayed by my side. Her tail started wagging and she kept looking up in a way that just melted my heart.  She’s obviously wanting someone to love and someone to love her. She’s very sweet, calm and affectionate. Before I returned her to her kennel I even was rewarded with a few gentle kisses.”
 She’s a year-old, 25-pound Aussie Cattle Dog/Dalmatian Mix (and an Earhound!). When you ask about Dottie, use her ID: #48457306. 

That’s a pose that says “High Energy,” isn’t it! That’s a “Terrier mix” named Madison — she’s a Mesquite stray, came in on the 16th at a year-and-a-half, 46 pounds and not spayed. Debra says she could use some manners training. Though appearing to have been “well cared for,” she “does not seem to know any commands.” And, Debra writes, “Madison is a lively and spunky girl who will ump frequently on you Manners training would greatly benefit this youngster.” And theres this: “Once outside, she seemed immediately to want to go back inside.” [LARRY ASIDE: Dear fellow dog lovers, doesn’t that make you want to just sit down next to that girl and hug her and tell her she’s loved indoors or outside and give her a home….” Yeah, we can’t give her one either — we’ve given homes to the limit already — but we can sure suggest that other people give a good home to a dog listed as #48458745.]
 Remember, contact the shelter at 927-216-6283 or email [email protected]
And you can click on the shelter site HERE 
to see more animals waiting for rescue or a home. Among the cats is this little girl Victoria (#48000660), more than 3 months old and a tabby. She came in on June 15. [LARRY ASIDE: I decided to spotlight Victoria because of a cat named Benchley. More than a quarter-century ago my funspouse Martha and I rescued a litter of kittens from a storage shed behind the Theater on the Hill in Cedar Hill where we were involved in “show biz.” Homes were found for all of them — we kept the glorious girl Benchley, named in honor of the writer/actor Robert Benchley by my literatespouse Martha. We kept up with the other cats for years. One, named Victoria and looking much like this one, left Texas and moved to England to live out her life as a subject of the crown. Perhaps there’s someone in the Dallas/Fort Worth Fertile Feline Area who’d like to take a Texas cat to Ol’ Blighty. Get in touch with the shelter and “God save the Queen and Texas,” typed a son of the Lone Star State.]


MEANWHILE IN LANCASTER,
A NUMBER OF ANIMALS WAIT!
And, of course, there is no let-up with efforts to keep the unwanted, discarded, dumped or surrendered animals from ending up with a bad deal at the Lancaster Animal Services Shelter.
These are just 5 of the dogs that have been waiting for adoptors or rescuers to swoop in and save them from the needle.
We got the photos from the folks with 4-Legged Helpers, the non-profit that focuses on smaller shelters without a lot of human foot traffic or big public relations programs pitching their “adorable adoptables” all over kingdom come.
You can read about these animals by going to the 4-Legged Helpers Facebook page HERE. 

You’ll also see animals from other shelters that the Helpers are trying to save. And to ask about any of these animals or any other animals, call or text the Helpers’ Laura Macias at 214-949-2726 or Facebook message her at Laura Macias HERE.

CONTEMPLATIONS
BARKING UP THE WRONG TREE?
It was during an unoccupied portion of the weekend that the cats and I began to discuss the beauty of nature.
“You are a glorious part of nature,” I said, quickly adding”As are the dogs, of course.” 
The Senator, looking up from his well-worn copy of psychic I. C. "Darwin" Ahed’s book Origin of  Pisces replied, “Do you think your talking to a roomful of humans? We’re not part of nature — we ARE nature.”
And, then, I pulled out my cellphone and showed the photos of a tree alongside I-30 just west of Arlington to The Senator. “Ah,” he said. “Humans at work. Won’t fool a cat. Might not fool a dog. Birds? They’ll land anywhere.”
He explained that what he’s saying is humans cannot mimic trees.
Indeed, The Senator has a handle on humankind. And he cites the poem Treesby Joyce Kilmer. The first two lines are “I think that I shall never see
/A poem as lovely as a tree…” and Kilmer closes with 
“Poems are made by fools like me,
But only God can make a tree.”
The Senator suggests that you can read the entire poem Trees on the Poetry Foundation page HERE.
Our longtime friend and confidant, The Senator, a fellow who has found peace with dogs, other cats and humans and who gives calm guidance to a household, notes that Kilmer, who’d enlisted in the U.S. Army to help fight The War to End All Wars, was killed by a German sniper’s bullet on July 30, 1918, in France. 
“Humans,” sighed The Senator, shaking his wise old head, “They write poetry and songs, they create paints and sculptures, they love babies and puppies and kittens — and yet, they just can’t quit fighting. Perhaps if they took more time, they could create a cell phone tower that doesn’t look like some kind of evergreen toilet brush.” Ah, The Senator, philosophizing and relaxing in his kitchen chair… a cat with a view.
—— Offer peaceful ideas by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] and putting “PEACE PROTECTS THE PLANET” in the subject line. —-