ReadLarryPowell.com

FROM HISTORIC MOMENTS TO A HOLIDAY; PLUS ANIMALS NEEDING HUMAN HELP

EDITION OF JUNE 20, 2022 [PetPowellPress] This is a Monday holiday that was a long-time comin’, as the phrase goes. So, in honor of the spirit of this day, we cite the celebration and the triumph encompassed by “Juneteenth.” The official name of the federal holiday is “Juneteenth National Independence Day.” This is the first one.
Though, in 1979 Texas became first state to declare June 19 a state holiday, i.e., “Emancipation Day — first “official” Texas Emancipation Day was in 1980. But, as a child of Northeast Texas, I was aware of Juneteenth celebrations — families, churches, other groups. That was long before it became a federal holiday but far too long from when it should have been recognized. (More on this in Contemplations. Maybe the content of the “announcement” will sent a chill galloping through your heart, too, as you ask, “Could we really have been like that?”)
HOW DOES A CAT WIND UP
IN A SMALL TEXAS SHELTER?
Easy. The “Drop off and leave, Good luck kitty” system.
 Only, there was a complication when it came to this girl Jasmine. We got the story on the “young female Torbie Domestic Shorthair” from 4-Legged Helpers, the small-shelter monitors. This situation was “dropped” on the Ferris Animal Shelter. 

Jasmine’s bio reads that she is the “most beautiful girl that is very sweet.”
And — KEEP IN MIND THAT THE TEMP IS DEADLY HOT — here’s why she’s available to adopt: “Someone left her at the gate and she would have died in the hot sun if someone had not seen here there in from of the gate...  Little sweetie pie.  Young.  Desperately needs someone.” We’re not sure what she was left in, box or carrier — but if it wasn’t a running car with air-conditioning, she was facing a deadly threat.
 To ask about helping her, call or text 4-Legged Helpers at 214-949-2726 or email [email protected]. And keep up with the Helpers’ rescue project by monitoring their Facebook page HERE.
You can keep up with this Earhound girl Bella — maybe even make contact to adopt her. She’s one of many the Helpers are trying to help.
FROM THE LOADED
FORT WORTH SHELTER

We’re opening the week with two notes about things in the Fort Worth Animal Care & Control shelters. FWACC is loaded — and it’s not the shelter’s fault — it’s people who dump animals and who allow their critters to stray. Well, you know how people can be.

We got a tip on a Facebook post about this fellow Choco (#A50210607). The note by FWACC volunteer Kristin Barg Morrison read, “How in the world has this dog sat waiting at the shelter for a month? I don’t understand.
“Choco A50210607 is 14 pounds, neutered male, and heartworm negative. Found as a stray on 5/17.
“Volunteer said he is super sweet! Little barky at first but opened up easily with treats. Good body l anguage and gave a few hand kisses.”
 Contact the shelter by emailing fwacctag@fortworth- texas.gov.
You can see Fort Worth’s many, many adoptable dogs and cats by clicking on THIS LINK.
And among the many, many kittens at FWACC,, you’ll find this majestic 7-year-old spayed Domestic Shorthair named Millie. She’s #49897355. [LARRY ASIDE: We don’t know how such a girl wound up in the shelter, but we’re pretty sure she didn’t Uber from her old home, knock on the front door and demand to be put into the city facility. There’s a human situation somewhere that got this baby onto the clock in a crowded shelter.]

A WORD ABOUT MILO,
THE CAT IN MESQUITE
I posted several photos of an older cat named Milo who was patiently waiting for a long time in the Mesquite Animal Services Shelter. Blame my sincere affection for older cats — I have “grown older” with several cats in my time and the companionship is invaluable. 

Then, one day last week, Milo’s photo was gone from the cat list. He’d been in the shelter for some time, so, naturally, I feared the worst. But I checked and our tipster, Mesquite Shelter dog biographer Debra Chisholm gave me the good news that Milo had been saved by a rescue group. [LARRY ASIDE: If that rescuer will email me at [email protected] with details of your group, I’ll be happy to write about the good you’ve done for Milo and other cats and dogs. Thanks for the info, but, especially, thanks for saving a cat I’ve never met but adore, anyway!]
See more animals to adopt or rescue by clicking on the Mesquite shelter site HERE.
While I was doing some research Monday, I ran across the story of Elvis (#49088259), a 13-month-old big Lab mix (maybe) who first came into the shelter Nov. 16, 2021. He was adopted, then became a stray (again) and was probably hit by a car and returned on March 15, 2922, His left back leg had to be amputated. But he has recovered gloriously and is an adorable dog. Still undergoing some followup treatments, but might be available for rescue-only or to the right “very special person.” To ask about adopting or rescuing Elvis, call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email at [email protected].
CONTEMPLATIONS
FROM INTRODUCTION TO HOLIDAY,
A TRIP ACROSS THE YEARS...
In my young world in elementary school, I learned about American slavery when the topic of the day was Abraham Lincoln. The operative sentence was “Lincoln freed the slaves.” We had no idea what that REALLY meant. Some of us church-going kids might have read about people being “enslaved,” but, goodness gracious, the word’s meaning was deeper than we knew. Nowadays, we realize how precious personal freedom is and also what a horrid affront to decency that slavery is.
That’s why Juneteenth’s celebration is important. The “never let this happen again” philosophy of remembering our sordid pasts. Have you ever read the announcement that was made in Texas on June 19, 1865? 
Here’s some historical perspective from research displayed in the online Handbook of Texas, thanks to the Texas State Historical Association. The passage reads: 
“On June 19 (‘Juneteenth’), 1865, Union general Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston and issued General Order Number 3, which read:
 ‘The people of Texas are informed that, in accordance with a proclamation from the Executive of the United States, all slaves are free. This involves an absolute equality of personal rights and rights of property between former masters and slaves, and the connection heretofore existing between them becomes that between employer and hired labor. The freed are advised to remain at their present homes, and work for wages. They are informed that they will not be allowed to collect at military posts; and that they will not be supported in idleness either there or elsewhere.”
To me, the significant phrase is “an absolute equality of personal rights.”
Here’s a LINK TO THE HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION and lots of Texas information.
ABOUT THE STRUGGLE to achieve “absolute equality.” I have a favorite song about the need for change and respect in our wondrous nation. The great Sam Cooke sings it. He released in in 1964 — if you missed that year in American history, read about it and see what people were up against. You’ll also see that the singer was shot to death on Dec. 11, 1964, in Las Angeles. He was 33. He left behind a song that became a message for a movement. Click HERE and listen as you contemplate our world.

—- Offer opinions by clicking on ‘comment’ below. —-

ESME, A CAT WHO KNOWS HOW TO TAKE A NAP, LET SLEEPING DOGS LIE & CHILL

Ever had a cat that simply seemed to be allowing you to live in her house?
Sometimes I get that feeling from this girl Esme. She is our featured feline for this weekend’s Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. She does, in fact, let’s sleeping dogs lie — I think that is her official policy regarding ALL dogs. 

That’s Esme sleeping in my funspouse Martha’s recliner. (In the second photo you can see that Esme has sensed someone is violating her tranquil space and has opened her beautiful eyes in anticipation of a yowling confrontation. I put away my phone camera; I can’t yowl.)
I think Esme nodded off and went into a full-on nap because there’s some sort of spell on that chair. I base that on the fact that a couple of minutes in that chair affects Martha the same way. Though, of course, she isn’t able to flop on her back in that chair and go paws-up.
We’ve had Esme since 2012 when she was a front porch feral kitten — one of many that were born either on the porch or near the porch during our 30 years at our home in Oak Cliff in Dallas. Most of them we found homes for and now and then the home we found was ours.

I cite, for example, two cats that may have come from the same gene pool as Esme: That’s Deputy Chief Kittie Leigh Johnson on the bedspread and that’s my office cat William Powell showing off his beautiful eyes and pink nose.
Esme is more tortie than those two, but there are so many similarities, including moodiness. 
Kittie Leigh arrived as a little cross-eyed kitten on the porch in 2011, just before Esme arrived. William came to the sanctuary, er, home, in 2018 — he helped me paint the woodwork on the outside of the house for two days. When I got the ladder out of the garage, he’d show up. When I put it away, he’s hide out in the front yard. Then, on the third day, he decided he’d stay. These three cats are wonderful companions.

I don’t know how much money we’ve spent on cats and kittens during our 30-plus years of marriage/rescue, but it continues to be worth it.
Esme is an example of the worth of a cat being emotional. Sometimes, when we’re watching TV, she’ll come padding into the room, look at Martha, then at me, and then she’ll jump up on the table between our chairs and pick a lap to lay in while the winning human gets to pet her. Yes, she’s in charge. 
Her name? Martha named her "Esme." One of Martha’s favorite movies is Foul Play with Chevy Chase, Goldie Hawn and Burgess Meredith. The Burgess character has a pet snake named Esme who is contributes to the plot. 
Our Esme contributes to the plot of each day, too.
Appropriately affectionate, Esme is an example of a great friend, a listener and a personality with a definite opinion when the treat box is opened. She’s usually first in line — ahead of all the dogs and her fellow felines. That is Esme with some roses either she or Martha got when Rosie was about 5 years old. 
Oh, and Esme wanted to be sure that we wished Sir Paul McCartney a gloriously entertaining 80th birthday on the 18th. She mewed authoritatively, “He is one cool cat.” 
That’s a photo from the weekend’s The National, the newspaper “for all of Wales.”  Esme subscribes, but I’m not sure of her Welsh connections though my family is said to have roots there.
 Esme has been reviewing Sir Paul’s career to determine her favorite song. “They’re like a litter of kittens,” Esme said, “Who can pick a favorite from such greatness?”
[DEAR READERS: Surely you have a dog and/or a cat who owns your heart. Send us photos of the beloved beings sleeping and philosophizing  (email [email protected]) and we’ll spotlight them in our long-running feature, Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. Remember, you might just be helping a family decide to open their home to a dog or cat who needs a happy place for the rest of their lives. And you’ll be helping insomniacs realize that they, too, can get some sleep if they can just figure how to fit upside-down into a recliner. Yes, that is the wonderful Esme caught stretching out and enjoying some quality time with a place to nap.
—- Leave opinions by clicking on ‘comment’ below or email [email protected] and put ‘BABY, I’M AMAZED’ in the subject line. —-

A MOON OVER NEW YORK; HELPING DOGS AND CATS; A SOGGY KEYBOARD....

EDITION OF FRIDAY, JUNE 17, 2022 [PetPowellPress] Earlier, readlarrypowell.com had lamented its inability to snap a photo of the Strawberry Moon over the sprawling Texas spread we operate in Lone Star style. [LARRY ASIDE: We must have acreage can cattle I don't know about — how else can I explain that tax bill?]

Moving back to the lunar topic: The cattle sent an emissary, Loyd the Goat (an attorney), up to the ranch-house to ask one question he’d scribbled on a napkin that had blown into the pasture. “Why aren’t we seeing that Strawberry Moon in our sky?” Our explanation was “Clouds and Sahara Sand obscure the view.” Nothing sadder than — picture this — a herd of dairy cattle standing around and trying to look straight up in the middle of the night. Legend has it that one of their ancestors once jumped over the moon. Legend.
Get a load of this photo. Isn't that something!
As many a Lone Star newsman has done since the invention of the telegraph, we relied on authoritative sources on the East Coast, specifically in the Big Apple over which the Big Moon has been majestic. Moonjestic, in fact. And our cattle sent a thank-you note referring to this photograph as “Moooojestic.” Bottom line: We are quite enchanted by the photo and the details of the Strawberry Moon.
That photograph -- we'll cite the photographer shortly -- is presented thanks to the diligent work of our Readlarrypowell.com Eastern Seaboard Bureau Chief Andy Fisher, the veteran print and broadcast journalist who has gathered news while covering the Pope in America, the Olympics, major league baseball and many other notable stories and events. As you know, Andy and Annie Fisher live in the Eastern Seaboard Bureau Complex on Indian Lake in Denville, N.J., in the home of Chloe the Cat. That is Chloe, a rescued feline, posing while working on her home-furnishings cable show, Chloe’s Comforts.

As NASA once said, "Back to the moon." Among Andy’s former colleagues in the broadcast industry is the man who photographed the moon for this edition of our humble website. Our thanks go to Andy for lining up a lunar portrait.
Andy tells us “
The wonderful moon photograph is the work of, Andy wrote, "Bill Diehl, ABC Radio entertainment correspondent, Society of Silurians [Press Club] board member, Andy-Annie wedding guest, and former WNEW colleague. It was taken from his 32nd-floor apartment on New York's elegant Upper East Side.”

The moon picture indicates there may be some truth to the theory that New York City is the best vantage point in the known universe. Readlarrypowell.com is grateful for Mr. Diehl’s photograph of the Strawberry Moon 2022.  As as all working journalists may suspect, the usual check is in the mail.
[LARRY FYI: That last photo (I took it Thursday night) is what an empty sky looks like over the trees in the neighborhood of our Cowtown sprawl.. Now and then you might see a Guernsey practicing high jumps in a t-shirt that reads "Jump the Moon For Grandpa." I'll try to snap a photo.]
THE DOWN-TO-EARTH BEAUTY
OF ZEKE THE BC/CD MIX
OK, we’ll admit to being nuts about Border Collies and Border Collie mixes since childhood and our tri-color traditional beauty Queenie. Having confessed to that, on Friday morning we found another incredibly beautiful dog thanks to our pal, Mesquite volunteer dog biographer Judi Brown. 
Judi put it best in her opening sentence: “If you’re looking for a medium size, handsome dog that will stop people in their tracks when you’re walking him take a look at at these pictures of Zeke.”

Really! Look at that coat and then smile when you see that fantastic tail! The genes were all in the right place for this guy.
Zeke is a 2-year-old, 64-pound Border Collie/Cattle Dog mix — came in as a stray on the 11th. [LARRY ASIDE: Nobody has come looking for him — you’d think somebody would miss seeing this beautiful dog around the house!]
Judi writes, “Their loss is your gain as he’s an absolute jewel. When I went into his kennel I was met with tail wags. Walking through the bay he went nose to nose with some of the smaller dogs and appeared to be intimidated by the large dogs that were barking at him. I did not notice any aggression but we always suggest if you have another dog to have the shelter do a dog test. He walked very well on the leash. As soon as he got out into the yard he did his business. A kennel tech told me that he keeps his kennel clean... an indication he’s probably housebroken. At first, other than to do his business, he stayed real close to me, but as he became more comfortable with me he started to perk up and actually frolicked around the yard. He seemed very happy!”

Judi says he’s well-mannered, will sit and “give his paw”, was iffy about the treats, retrieves thrown balls and “definitely wants to please." She also wrote, “He liked having his ears scratched and as reward I was given some gentle kisses!!! There’s just nothing not to like about this handsome boy with a big fluffy tail! Run don’t walk to come meet him or tag him.” She also says that he knows where the air-conditioning is. When he got fed up with the heat, he stood by the door and waited for someone who could reach the door handle to take the hint! 
Want to ask about Zeke. Refer to him by his number, ID# 50408166 when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmes- quite.com.
See more Mesquite adorable adoptables by clicking to the shelter’s website HERE. Among the many kittens — emphasis on “many” — is this girl Carrie, #50237118. She’s a “Domestic Shorthair/Mix” who arrived at the shelter on May 20 — she’s probably around 2 months old. [LARRY ASIDE: she appears to enjoy having her ears scratched. Could have been a one-day mood or a lifetime habit. Depends on the human hand.]
ONE MORE CASH WRAP-UP
FOR THIS WEEK IN ANIMALS
As you may know/suspect, readlarrypowell.com holds rescuers and advocates in high esteem. They’re determined people with big hearts.
Among them, the 4-Legged Helpers. They keep hustling on behalf of animals “stored” in low-traffic, low- budget, low-attention smaller shelters.
Now and then there’s a break on behalf of the animals.
You may recognize those kittens — the black and white is Skyler and the big-eyed tabby is Taffy. They came into the Ferris Shelter with Benjamin, the adult boy orange cat who may be their father. And after they arrived, another kitten, Braydon, came in.
The good folks at one of our favorite groups, Richardson Humane Society,  took Benjamin and Braydon via the Helpers. Our Helpers tipster Laura Macias told us, “Benjamin is such a lover kitty, he just sat on the seat next to the transporter and chilled. He is a great kitty! So HAPPY for him.”

Now, for these other animals still on the Helpers’ radar, call or text the helpers at 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71@ yahoo.com.
but there are some new donations for other small-shelter dwellers.
And we’ve written about them before, so you can see their bios by scrolling down or by going to the 4-Legged Helpers Inc. Facebook page.

There’s a $175 donation to the 501c3 rescue that’ll take in Bella, the Earhound! And a $400 donation on behalf of the “very sweet little girl” Precious (right). 
Chance, who was abandoned at a boarding facility more than a year ago, has a $125 donation for a 501c3. Chad is lined up for a $300 donation. Same for Ranger, the dog who was found near a gun range and had a broken leg — healthy now.
And that brings us to a recent arrival in Ferris, this boy Jax.
He’s a Jack Russell Terrier Mix, the shelter says.
The Helpers’ bio says he was “found out and about on his own.
"He is very sweet and gentle. Very well behaved. Great little boy.”
Contact the Helpers to ask about helping Jax or adopting him.
CONTEMPLATIONS
MONEY, COFFEE AND KEYBOARDS...
As I wrapped up a pro bono writing/editing project this week, I thought of the quote from Samuel Johnson (1709-1784), the noted British writer. In some professions, he’s most famous for having said, “No man but a blockhead ever wrote except for money.” I don’t have a lasting quote, but try this, “Let’s go to a bar—you can buy me a drink.” Relax, with inflation who can afford to drink enough to get looped. …
I’m working on my second keyboard today. The one I usually use caught about a slop-and-a-half of decaf (about two spoonfuls) when I fumbled my special cup this morning and tipped the open spout toward the left side of the moisture-sensitive apparatus. Good thing I didn't get into medical school. At least I wasn’t electrocuted and I still had enough coffee left to sip while the keyboard dried. The keyboard I’m using now? It’s the one with all the letters worn off the keys. Fortunately I remember where most of the letters are. That’s a photo of a typewriter from the previous century — looks like those in the newsroom of the first paper I worked for back in 1965. You could pour all the coffee you wanted into that keyboard and it wouldn’t stop.
GENERATIONAL NOTE: Ever miss finishing off a line of type and then reaching up to throw the carriage? If you’re old enough to remember that, why, bless your heart. You had to be coordinated to “throw the carriage” without sticking the keys before you’d start the next line. First thing I learned in the newsroom was “Don’t put your Coke bottle on the right side of the carriage — one healthy throwing of the carriage and you’d send Coke spewing all over the newsroom. Important lesson for a reporter: Don’t do anything stupid in public. And here I am confessing to pouring hot decaf into an electronic keyboard. Even the cats winced when the dogs and I howled in disgust.
—- Offer animal advice or keyboard clean-out methods by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] and put COOL MOON in the subject line. —-

YES, THE ANIMALS KEEP WAITING; THEY ALSO KEEP TURNING UP....

EDITION OF THURSDAY/FRIDAY June 16-17, 2022 [PetPowellPress] As I am on a number of mailing lists — some strange, some not, some beyond strange — I get a lot of email. One of the less-strange daily notes comes from The Old Farmer’s Almanac. This morning e-epistle (how’s that for a computer term) included a “Word of The Day.” What? “Nebulaphobia.” The Almanac says it means “Fear of fog or humidity.” Fog, not so common. Humidity? Bonafide Texas hair-droop fear of “thick air” when you walk out of the air-conditioning. That's my teenage kitten Hastings preferring to be left alone on his air-conditioned napping spot.
A LONG SUBJECT LINE
FOR AN ANIMAL E-MAIL  
We posted a note earlier in the week about a number of dogs and cats being promoted for adoption or rescue by the 4-Legged Helpers. Some of these animals have been waiting for a while for help getting out of the Ferris Animal Shelter and other places that are one needle away from the end of the line.
 So, today’s email included possibly the longest subject line ever and a reference to every animal we mentioned in that previous report. The subject line reads:

“CRITICAL!! NONE CHOSEN! NONE RESCUED!!! Not a single one and these shelters have zero walk-in’s! Zero adopters! HELP! DFW. RURAL SHELTERS - THESE KITTENS. CATS, PUPPIES & DOGS NEED YOU…”

To help the Helpers, call or text 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71 @yahoo.com.
New to the list is Bella, an Earhound who is, as you may have guessed, a Shepherd mix. Her small-shelter bio reads that she’s already fixed, vaccinated and “adores people.” And it says she’s a “great dog with all the Shepherd traits (checking perimeter, LOL) Seems to like boy dogs. Someone pulled her on her last day at a kill shelter (to foster)…” FYI: She is NOT a good mix with cats.
Also, still waiting is this girl Precious. She comes with a $400 donation to the to the 501c3 rescue that takes her. We’ve used the pointy-ear photo of her several times in the months she’s been waiting for a life-saving rescue. Now we have this newer photo of the sweet dog Precious demonstrating how she can be a really good pup for a loving human.
We’ve mentioned Lucas before, too. But this photo got to me. He’s a 5-month-old “Beagle or Hound/Husky mix” in the Ferris Shelter. This is the guy who “was found in a person’s yard but they had no idea where he came from.”
And, I’ll finish with one more photo of Jordan. The dog who was suckered out of a car by a woman with a food dish. She put the dish down and when he ran to the dish, “she then grabbed the food, jumped in the ar and sped off.” That’s how the 4-Legged Helpers’ bio of Jordan reads. 
[LARRY ASIDE: Can you imagine how puzzled Jordan was when the human drove away? That’s just about as mean as you can get — what kind of heart do you have when you can pull a stunt like that? If the person would like to give her side of the story, why, just go ahead and email it to [email protected]. Or, please turn yourself in at a local police station and confess to animal abandonment which, I think, may be against the law in Texas.]

****
A RANT: Is this the worst year ever for overloaded shelters and non-reactive humans? Where are the adoptors? And is there any way to plan ahead for product availability when you have no way of controlling production? The only tool is depending on people to do the right thing, i.e., spay and neuter. OK, this wasn’t really a rant. It’s just a lament for the way things are and a hope that they can get better. We’re preaching the Gospel of Dogs and Cats — they’re worth having around the house!
****
MEANWHILE, IN MESQUITE
SOME ADORABLES AWAITIN’
And this message from Mesquite is almost an echo of what that rant read. We’ve repeated it frequently lately, but this is the Mesquite Shelter Truth: “Our shelter is critically overcrowded and kennel space is needed for the strays and surrenders that daily come through our doors.” |

So, good  grief, where do the pretty and adorable dogs come from? Human failure, we suspect. This one came from a “walk- about.” 
This is “beautiful and sweet Becca,” according to our tipster, the volunteer dog biographer Debra Chisholm. She says Becca came in on May 26 as a stray. She’s a year-old, weighs about 30 pounds and hasn’t been spayed. 
Debra writes, “This precious pup is timid and shy but once she gets to know you she sticks close. She enjoys cuddling and finds comfort in leaning against a human friend for loving attention.”
Calm, well-mannered, “mellow personality,” walks “nicely” on a leash.” And, also, “Becca knows the sit command and will happily do so for treats which she takes gently.  She displayed a bit of nervous energy and doubtless is confused as to how she landed in a city shelter.” She’s #50282627.
Use that ID when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email at [email protected]. Same procedure for the rest of these animals.
Debra also met Mercedes (#50365124), a “mixed breed boy”, about 4, 26-pounds and a stray who arrived on June 6. She writes, “Not only is he the cutest little guy, but he has such a sweet  personality and the most beautiful, brown, soulful eyes.  He is well-mannered, calm, gentle and submissive.  Mercedes is friendly, affectionate and enjoys attention.  He very much likes treats and takes them gently. … He appears to have been well-cared for and yet he is here in a city shelter with no one coming to reclaim.”

 That brings us to BoBo (#50393905), described by Debra as a “turbo-charged youngster…a mixed breed boy” who came into the shelter as a stray on June 9. He’s about a year-old, weighs 32 pounds and isn’t neutered — yet. 
Debra wrote, “He has plenty of puppy energy, spunk and enthusiasm.  He is an ‘on the go’ kind of guy. In his excitement he does jump on you.  In short, Bobo is a sweet pup who would require plenty of daily enrichment--exercise, walks, and playtime.  Obedience classes would greatly benefit Bobo.  He is also obsessed with toys.  Give him a small pile of toys and he will happily amuse himself and entertain you! … This is a pup who would be best suited for an active person or family who would stay committed to investing time and effort in helping him adapt well to his new forever home.”
Debra’s colleague in dog biographies, Judi Brown, had the privilege of meeting Patches (#50403074), a “4-year-old tan/white cute Pittie” with “beautiful eyes” and a “very sweet nature.”
Judi writes, “Patches comes by his name naturally. He’s quite a handsome fellow with tan patches and eyes that will mesmerize you!  Patches is a 4-year-old, 42-pound tan and white Pittie that arrived at the Mesquite Shelter on 6/10 as a stray. He is not fixed. When I went into his kennel he was all wiggles and wags. He was very energetic and interested in making friends with the dogs that he passed in the bay. However we always suggest if you have another dog to have the shelter dog test them. It was a very hot day and as soon as we got out into the yard he gravitated towards the door. It’s obvious that he would not want to be an entirely outside dog. … He has a happy easy-going nature. He stayed close, but of course part of that was because he wanted to be by the door and wanted to go inside. …He chased a ball and retrieved it several times but I didn’t pursue that because of the hot temperatures. …He’s just an all-around great dog and would most likely do real well with a  family with children.”
And we’ll close the Mesquite report with Debra’s bio of a “fun-loving youngster” named Cowboy (#50391201), a Pittie mix who came in as a stray on June 9. He is about a year old and weighs 64 pounds, including testicles. 
Debra writes, “His antics will keep you amused.  Even though it was very warm outside during the photo session, he was doing ‘zoomies’ around the yard. You can just look into his cute face and stunning eyes to see that he just wants to have fun.  He has a very high energy level and will jump on you in his excitement.  This is a youngster who needs daily playtime, exercise and attention.  Obedience classes would be most beneficial.  Cowboy has a friendly nature and is happy to interact with a human friend.  He knows the sit and paw commands. He walks well on a leash and when led past other dogs he did not show any aggression. … Cowboy has tons of confidence and an outgoing personality.” 
See more adorable adoptables at Mesquite by clicking on the shelter’s site HERE.
CONTEMPLATIONS

WEATHER, A STAR AND THE MOON
Regarding our opening topic, The Old Farmer’s Almanac citing Nebulaphobia as word of the day — fear of fog or humidity, the Almanac said. I walked past the front yard flowerbed Elephant Ears this week and the big one on the right said, “It’s the heat — and the humidity.” The others were too drained to speak. They’re reviving. We think. …

Caught this note on a calendar page online — Wednesday is/was (depending on when you read this) the birthday (June 16, 1955) of the really splendid actress Laurie Metcalf. She’s won two Tonys on Broadway, and also is known from TV as both as Roseanne Connor’s sister on Roseanne and Sheldon Cooper’s mom on The Big Bang Theory. (Her daughter, Zoe Perry, plays Sheldon’s mom on the spinoff Young Sheldon.) In the long list of credits, one of her Fave performances at readlarrypowell.com? Guest-starring as wacky Cora Little, the woman who told amnesia-affected Monk (Tony Shaloub as Adrian Monk) that they were married and his name was “Jerry.” It’s the 2006 episode Mr. Monk Bumps His Head. …
I’ve been trying to get a glimpse of the Strawberry Moon, as the current huge “super moon” is known. Just a glimpse. Either my timing is bad, my location is bad or there’s just too much clouding and Sahara dust in the sky. Ah, but to the rescue comes our pal Karen Lee, founder (with hubby Dennis in 2013) and hard-working guiding light of barkleyworld.com, the organization (send some donations!) that helps animals in tough spots find medical help. This is one of the photos Karen took at “moonrise” over Las Cruces, N.M., this week. Yes, readlarrypowell.com is envious.

—- Offer moon news or recipes by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] and put “ORBITAL VELOCITY” in the subject line. —-

TIME MOVES; DOGS AND CATS NEEDING HELP FROM HUMANS; CONTEMPLATIONS FROM MOON TO BOY GEORGE

EDITION OF TUESDAY/WEDNESDAY JUNE 14/15 2022 [PetPowellPress] Middle of the month is arriving. Summer gets here at 4:14 a.m. Texas time on Tuesday the 21st. And all summertime diets are in full activation or being ignored (bless our hearts and waists). The State Fair of Texas opens Sept. 30 (runs through Oct. 23). Clocks are ticking toward 2 a.m. Sunday Nov. 6. Oh, and December holiday shopping is drawing to a close in some well-organized households. Shopping’s done? Absurdities aside, that’s my office cat, William Powell, contemplating the passage of time. Now, here are some animals to help:

THE 4-LEGGED HELPERS
HAVE A CROWD OF CRITTERS
I think “Crowd of Critters” is the natural combination of a “Pack-a-pups” and a “Clowder of Cats.” Got ‘em all in this edition. Especially in this item from the 4-Legged Helpers.
As you know, most of these animals are in shelters with low human foot traffic. So, the hustling Helpers work to get spotlights on these animals.
 To help the Helpers help the animals, call or text 214-949-2726 or email [email protected].

You might recognize that big orange cat. Or that cute dog Jordon. We’ve written about them before and nobody has claimed them. [LARRY ASIDE: Nobody. Not one heart exists to help either of these. We may have to get scientists to create an implantable dog and cat friendly heart. Put that ahead of getting us to Mars, OK?]

The deal with Benjamin is he’s likely the dad” who was surrendered to the Ferris Animal Shelter with the black and white kitten Skyler and her sister, the wide-eyed Taffy. Two cuddly kittens. (The “surrendering people kept Momma kitty, we’re told.)
 The Helpers report that handsomely adorable Benjamin, “the cutest guy ever,” was surrendered by people who ‘thought he might be a kitty great for a barn.” Turns out Benjamin is no barncat. The Helpers report, “This cuddly love bunny adores everyone and is a perfect indoor kitty. He is the sweetest.” Fixed and had his first vaccinations. And he’s only about a year old.
The kittens follow in his “adorable” and “cuddling” footsteps, the Helpers report.
Ferris has this other kitten, too. Braydon, a “sweet little guy found out and about on the side of the road in the heat. Fortunately a kind person picked him up and brought him to the shelter.” He’s about 12 weeks old and “smaller and very thin due to being out and not being fed.” 

The Helpers, in a separate “case,” have been asked to “help network a little litter of 8-week-old puppies” — helping the litter is described as “urgent.” You can see all of the puppies and read about them on the Helpers’ FACEBOOK page HERE.
The Helpers report, “Mommy is a purebred JRT (she is safe).  Daddy apparently was an Aussie Shepherd — just from looking at these adorable babies.”
One more Ferris dog: That’s Lucas, described as a 5-months-old Boxer/Husky mix. “He was found in a person’s yard but they had no idea where he came from. He is very friendly and just so ‘baby sweet’.” And he does have ears — the Helpers are working on getting photos of Lucas with his ears on display.
Then, of course, Ferris still has Jordon — we wrote about Jordon last weekend. He’s the dog … well, you may remember: A woman pulls up in her car, gets out with a dish of food and this dog, put’s the dis down, the pup runs to the dish, she grabs the dish, jumps into her car and “speeds off” leaving the dog. Young, 28-pound Jordon is waiting for someone with a heart to come get him.
In a Dallas situation, the Helpers are tying to find a place for Bulldog mix Chance. “This great boy has literally been waiting a year now for someone to help him.  He is cute and sweet and SO LOVABLE. Approximately 45-50 pounds.  Neutered and chipped!!!  He was abandoned at a boarding facility. He is a sweetie pie that is so completely deserving.”
And the helpers are still trying to find places for Chad, Ranger and Precious. They’re all not only mentioned in previous editions of readlarrypowell.com, but also are noted on the Helpers Facebook page.

And remember to get in
touch with the Helpers
by calling or texting 214-949-2726 or emailing [email protected].

AND, NOW, A MESQUITE DOG
‘FOUND NEAR THE AIRPORT’
This guy Hudson is an American Pit Bull and, our tipster Debra Chisholm, the volunteer dog biographer, says he was “found near the Mesquite Airport” and brought to the city shelter on June 3. He’s about 4 years old and isn’t (yet) neutered.
Debra points out that, as you can see in the photo, Hudson has “suffered some kind of chemical burn at some time and perhaps recently re-injured it.  He has been to the vet and is being given antibiotics to deal with any kind of infection.  In spite of this medical issue, he is the sweetest fellow. 

“At intake he was understandably fearful and uneasy, but as staff members continue to interact with him Hudson has become more comfortable and relaxed.  That is how I found him to be as I was introduced to him for the first time and got pics, an eval and video.  He is friendly, sweet, has an outgoing and confident personality and is playful.  He was dog-tested with another unaltered male dog and found to be dog social what that boy.  He is energetic and wants to play and hang out with a human friend.  Hudson needs out of the shelter isolation unit and into an environment more conducive to healing properly.”
He’s #50350666.
Use that ID number when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected].

See more Mesquite adorable adoptables by going to the shelter’s website HERE. We’ve repeatedly noted that 4-year-old Milo is waiting for a home. That’s the rascal in his bed. 
 And, as it turns out, there’s an 8-year-old orange fellow named Henry (#29601524). He came in on May 5. And he can be seen in the Cat Room at the shelter. Milo (#48498400) came in on March 18 and he’s in the Conference Room. [LARRY ASIDE: “Older cats have a lot to give and can charm humans,” typed the voice of experience with kittens and cats.]
CONTEMPLATIONS
THE MOON, A QUOTE AND A BOY
You’ve probably seen a larger-than-usual- moon hanging in the sky over North Texas — unobscured by clouds, of course. What, rainclouds? Yeah, right. Anyway, Tuesday evening at dusk the Strawberry Moon rises to its fullness on the southeastern horizon. Why is it the “Strawberry Moon”? Our sources at The Old Farmer’s Almanac (OFA) say it got its name from Native Americans who recognized its association with ripening berries. It’s a “super moon.” Has to do with light and proximity. The OFA reports, “This full Moon will be the second supermoon of 2022! This happens when the moon’s orbit is closest to Earth, presenting us with a larger, brighter full moon. The common definition of a supermoon is any full Moon that is at a distance of at least 90% of perigee (which is the point at which the Moon is closest to Earth). June’s full Moon stands at 222,238.4 miles (357,658 km) away—comfortably within that cut-off point.” We don’t have a photo of the current Strawberry Moon, but because Strawberry Shortcake is an American Favorite, there are two illustrations. Kids may recognize both of them. …

The folks with Think & Laugh Daily provided this Leonardo da Vinci quote for Tuesday: “Where there is shouting, there is no true knowledge.” Not sure about that, but we can always think about it. …
I always learn something from veteran TV newsman Jeff Crilley’s Real News Public Relations daily news report The Rundown. In this case, I learned that Boy George is really not much of a “boy,” numerically speaking. The singing star turned 61 on Tuesday. Here’s the official video of Karma Chameleon from way back in 1983 when Boy George was… wait. How old was I in 1983? Let’s just CLICK HERE and enjoy the video. Before you see the 1983 video you’ll have to endure a 5-second 2022 advert. Call it Karmakannoying.
—- Offer tunes or recipes by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] and put “YOU AIN’T NO BOY, LARRY” in the subject line. —-

IN THE ERA OF CROWDED SHELTERS, WE HAVE SOME AVAILABLE ANGELS....

EDITION OF MONDAY/TUESDAY, JUNE 13-14, 2022 [PetPowellPress] Ah, Summer -- and it's only Spring.. I checked the Holiday Insights website and June is both National Adopt A Cat Month and National Accordion Awareness Month. If you have adopted a cat who plays the accordion, please let me know.
I have a dog who plays drums and is looking for weekend gigs. Now, let’s move on. 

THREE DOGS READY TO GO
AFTER GETTING SOME BREAKS
We got the news on these three dogs from Mary Sullivan at SoS Fosters For Pets In Need. So, she’s the person to contact at msully2011@gmail. com.
I mentioned that early in case you want to just go ahead and step-up for one of these or more.

Blake has a story that clearly involves human failure at some point and rescue because of human success after the challenges. Mary writes that “this sweet Pittie … was found with a rope knotted tightly around his neck and a head injury.  He’s healthy now and he’s one of the BEST dogs we’ve ever had in rescue.  Loves every person and every dog he encounters!  Happy and playful, but very much a snuggler, too.  About 18 months old and 48 lbs.  Needs a foster or forever home please!”
That brings us to Koba the Boxer Mix and Lovebug the”kind of a Heinz 57 mix.” Mary say that “Koba and Lovebug had been living in a homeless encampment in Dallas before they got to us. With all they’ve been through it’s amazing how sweet they are. 
Koba, about 6 years old and 67 pounds, is described as needing a “foster or forever home.” He’s “affectionate and gentle with people and good with other large dogs when properly introduced.  Moderate energy and does well on a leash and in the car.”

And Lovebug, the “kind a of Heinz-57 mix – may be some Shepherd but only 37 lbs.  About 7 years old.  Just a darling girl – great with people and other dogs!  She was brought to us after being found running along the side of NW Hwy.  Unfortunately, she’s HW+ - we’re prepared to treat her but need a MEDICAL FOSTER to help her get through the treatment.  We can supply everything a foster might need.”
Once again, tht email is [email protected].
A QUARTET OF CANINES
WAITING IN MESQUITE
AND ONE BIG CAT, TOO
From our contacts at the Mesquite Animal Services Shelter, we learn of four dogs waiting in the facility, generally regarded these days as “critically overcrowded.” So, yeah, animals need safely OUT.
First, our tipster, the volunteer dog biographer Debra Chisholm introduces us to Higgins. He’s a “Siberian Husky mix who arrived on 6/9 … as a stray.  Higgins weighs 53 pounds, is approximately 3 years old and is not neutered.  This friendly and sweet-natured fellow enjoys attention--being petted and loved on.  He is well-mannered, calm and gentle and seems compliant.  He does not jump on you.  He does not seem to know any commands and wasn't interested in toys or balls.  Higgins does quite nicely on a leash and he did not show any aggression when I walked him past other dogs.  He was quite interested in and curious about the smells in the yard. … He was mildly interested in treats which he took gently.” He’s #50393739 at the shelter — use that ID when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email at [email protected].  (Standard procedure for all these dogs.
This girl is Gabby, a “mixed breed who was abandoned and brought to the Mesquite Animal Shelter on 6/7,” Debra writes. “ Gabby is approx 10 months old, weighs 33 pounds and is not spayed.  She has a great personality--frisky and perky, playful (likes squeaky toys), is friendly and has an amiable nature.  She even likes to play fetch.  She knows the sit command and likes treats which she takes gently.  She does great on a leash and when I walked her past other dogs she did not seem unfriendly.  In fact she jumped back in fear at a few dogs who barked at her.  Her owner has obviously worked with her and yet she has found herself at a city shelter.  This is one terrific pup who would make some person or family a wonderful pet.” Gabby is #50368532.
Then, about this dog, Debra writes, “Wow, this very handsome, nearly full-blooded (according to my Dog Scanner app) Chocolate Lab/Retriever is Coco.”

He came in as a stray on June 7 — he’s about a year old, weighs 67 pounds and isn’t neutered. Debra says “He's got it all! Coco walks beautifully on a leash.  When I walked him through the bay he didn't respond in an unfriendly manner toward the other dogs.  He went to the potty when I took to the yard for his photo shoot so is possibly house trained.  He knows the sit command.  Coco enjoys chasing tennis balls, but doesn't return them.  He seems to be a bright boy, so doubtless he could easily  be taught to fetch. He enjoyed running and playing in the yard, even though it was very hot.  He is a fun-loving, outgoing and confident youngster.  He is spunky and energetic but not hyper.  He is playful, friendly and has a sweet nature. … He is available and with the critically overcrowded nature of our shelter, he would be happy to leave with a responsible and committed adopter or rescue.” Coco is #50372517.
And Hope is a 4-year-old, 43-pound mixed-breed “precious sweetheart” who came in as a stray on June 2. “Her ribs are showing so putting on a few more pounds would make her healthier-looking.  She has a mellow and laid-back personality.  Though her tail wags a lot, she is a bit tentative, cautious and timid.  She is friendly and though she didn't jump on me, she put her paws on my stomach and looked into my eyes seeming to communicate that she wanted to be my friend.  She walks well on a leash and when I led her past other kennels, even those with dogs who barked at her she did not show any aggression.  She does not seem to know any commands.  She wasn't interested in playing with toys or balls.  Her main interest seemed to be the acquiring of Pupperoni treats, which she takes gently.  Even though she did not respond to the sit command, she did sit when she wanted another treat.  Smart dog!  She appears to have recently had a litter.  This little gal captured my heart and you wouldn't have to spend much time with her yourself to feel the same.” She’s #50335887.
You can see more animals in the crowded Mesquite Shelter by clicking on THIS LINK.
The shelter has a bunch of kittens — a busload, truckload, boatload? The adult cats include this 4-year-old fellow Milo (#48498400). He came in on March 18. Might be a good cat to lounge around your house.
OH, BOY, HERE’S A REAL GEM
OF A STORY ABOUT A DOG….
This is really something. Showed up on a neighborhood bulletin board in the White Lake Hills section of Fort Worth. 
A woman named Adriane wrote and update on this wandering dog Bree. How do we know her name? Read on and if you’re familiar with human behavior, you won’t be surprised. 
Adriane's note explained, “She showed up wearing a diaper and was attached to a purse strap.” That was a couple of weeks ago. She’s still with the family that took her in. 
The Mom in the rescue house (already has a dog) wrote that “she’s still with us and we cannot keep her. My son tried to take her to a shelter in Crowley because they typically hang onto their animals until they’re adopted. They couldn’t take her but they scanned her chip.

“Unfortunately, she may have been neglected. My son contacted the owner. It turns out that she was a gift to the girlfriend. They broke up, girlfriend left her, changed her number, and the boyfriend didn’t want the dog. I don’t want to send her to a shelter. If anyone is looking for a sweet older dog that is calm, well behaved, and is obedient, this is your girl. Just a note, she was dominant with my son’s dog, but she is still a puppy so it wasn’t too surprising. Anyhow, let me know if you’re interested. Her name is Bree.” 
Yep, “Bree” on the chip info. Dumped by inattention. Isn’t that so darned sweet? Romantic, ain’t it.

CONTEMPLATIONS

ONE MORE FORT WORTH TALE
You know how whenever hot weather is coming to Texas, animal advocates advise everybody to protect their animals from the temperatures, the hot sidewalks and streets, anything that’ll damage sensitive eyes, skin, noses, paws, etc. While looking at the story about Bree, we also found this report from the neighborhood.
 Makes me want to Contemplate whether we can do more to remind people to protect their animals — maybe we can remind them when we remind them “Spay & Neuter.” Yeah, that works all the time.
 Here’s report that goes with this photo. Over the weekend the “Mom” reported, “Loaded up late yesterday afternoon by my daughter. It couldn't walk due to burnt feet. It spent the night being washed down with cold water then meds applied to feet. Not neutered, not chipped, no collar. Absolutely precious jewel. I will be monitoring its journey. It appears nobody is looking for it on social media. He's a middle-aged male.unfortunately I wasn't able to keep him. This afternoon he was taken to Martin Street Shelter (FWACC) ID# 50411273.” He hasn’t shown up on the Fort Worth Animal Care & Control listings HERE. But maybe someone claimed him already. In the meantime, protect paws and keep everybody wearing a natural fur coat safe from the miserable heat.
— Offer cool tips by clicking on ‘comment’ below or email [email protected] and put GET CHILLED in the subject line. —

THE FACE THAT CHARMS FROM THE ARM OF THE COUCH

My sweetspouse Martha and I were watching some British mystery together one night last week and she snapped a photo of me because I’d nodded off in her alternate recliner. She was in her other recliner. I have no recliner but I do have a spot on the couch if the dogs will let me sit there.
Anyway, in the photo, my eyes are shut, I’ve turned my body sideways, I’m not reclIned and my mouth is open wide enough to trap flying beasts if I’d nodded off outside.
And when I saw the photo I've posted here, I was envious of our dog Dudley the Angel. That is the picture that I wish had been me. What a face! Thus Dudley, a dog who wandered into our animal kingdom, is this weekend’s featured canine in Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. 
Isn’t that quite a slumbermug! 
You can see why he’s using the arm of the couch as a pillow — he had to make sure he left enough room for Martha’s dog, Wendy (Wedneday Louise Wagstaff Arden). They’re pals, Wendy and Dudley.

He loves for me to ruffle his thick coat —it’s the result of Border Collie and Chocolate Lab cross-breeding -- probably by accident. He has four white paws, a white blaze and a white tip on his tail. Plus there’s this white strip on his handsome muzzle. And his hair looks black at first glance, but then, in the sun, you see the brown coming through — and as his first vet, Dr. Vladi deJong, announced while hugging him, “Look at that — Border Collie and Chocolate Lab! This is a pretty dog!”

We cherish all our dogs and cats and I deeply envy those Earth creatures who can drop off and snooze on a whim. I have to plan sleeping. These mutts and cats look up at me when I’m and just shut down happily.
That’s something to envy.
Martha can do it when I’m talking. But, of course, I hang on her every word. I don’t want to nod off because she may be on the brink of saying something funny — or important.
I’ve noticed that the dogs and cats tend to listen to her, too. For me to hold their attention, I have to open  cookies packed in a bag that oughta carry a label warning “CAUTION DOG PEOPLE: EXTRA LOUD PLASTIC BAG.
Yes, I love dog faces and cat faces. I’m iffy on photos of my own face. Not as charming as a dog’s face -- awake or sleeping.
[DEAR READERS:That is my cat Stevie Ray demonstrating dignified and stylish cat-napping. If your cat can nap or your dog can sleep or any critter in your household or barn or pasture can nod off, send a photo and the story of that family member to [email protected] and we’ll post it in our long-running weekend feature, Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. Remember, you’ll be inspiring other people to open their homes to an animal. You’ll also be helping insomniacs in their quest for sleep — for example, they’ll try to bend their heads from their necks at a 45 degree angle while flopping on the couch. Insomniacs will try anything legal and some things that aren’t to get a full night’s restful sleep. And that last photo looks like Dudley is listening to me, but the woman he adores -- must I say "Martha"? -- was standing behind me and talking and he was as "all ears" as a flop-eared dog can be!]
— Offer sleeping tips or pillow advice by clicking on ‘comment’ or by emailing [email protected] and put FEAR OF HELL IS THE INSOMNIAC’S BED PARTNER in the subject line. It’s not, but that’s scary enough to keep you awake. —-

ANIMALS TO HELP AS THE WEEKEND ARRIVES; PLUS, THE MILLS BROTHERS

[EDITION OF FRIDAY PM, JUNE 10, 2022] Good afternoon, Dear Readers. I’m back from a happy visit with the general practitioner and I’d turn handsprings if it wouldn’t put me in a hospital. Now, we’ve got some work to do on behalf of dogs and cats. I’ll try to make this quick so you can work on helping save ‘em all between Friday afternoon and Monday morning.
What else could a weekend be made for? That’s my dog Porche giving us a hint on her Transcendental Rug of Tranquilization — rescue dog, you know. But, let’s move on. We’ve got some dogs in bad spots and the weekend might be when human hearts can help.

THE FERRIS CHALLENGE:
JORDAN’S SAD STORY
[LARRY NOTE: Dear Readers, before you read this one, I’ll confess to you that I’m mad enough for the both of us. But I applaud your justifiable ire! And we’re not the only ones who’d like to lecture a certain person with, apparently, a poorly designed heart. Read on.]
This guy Jordan is in the Ferris Shelter on the southern side of Dallas.
The note from the 4-Legged Helpers says he’s an “available now” Hound/Beagle mix.
And it reads, "OMG. HEARTBREAKING - TRULY…!! This little guy has the saddest story ever.  Someone saw a car pull up. A lady git out with food and she sat the food dish and pup down and he ran to the dish.  She then grabbed the food, jumped in the car and sped off.  Leaving him by himself.”
 [LARRY NOTE: I’ll pause here so you can regather control of your anger. Honestly, if anyone knows Jordan’s dumping human, let us know. We have brain-correcting lectures we can give at no charge.]

Jordan is, the note reads, “young, probably a year or so but is not big at all and appears to be full grown.  Nice medium size and only about 28 pounds. Sweet and cute as can be.  AND SO DESERVING. Please help save him  Please.  He deserves a better life than whatever apparently he went through with the horrible person that ditched him in such a horrific way.”

Call or text the Helpers at 214-949-2726 or email [email protected].
Same contact points for these next two dumplings, i.e. foundlings who were dumped. Dumplings. 
Also waiting at Ferris are these two abandoned kittens. The Helper’s note about the young females cites Skyler’s black and white coat and Taffy, the Tiger Tabby’s expressive eyes. The note reads: “Check out the cute little black nose on Skyler and the beautiful eyes on Taffy!  If you are looking for the most cuddly, sweetest, affectionate little kitties ever, look no further.  This pair appears to be sisters and they are young snd perfect for absolutely anyone.  THEY ADORE people.  Clearly they have been in a home before but were brought in by someone who apparently found them  They are wonderful. Would do great at adoption events or really in any type of home.  Please help!  AVAILABLE TOGETHER OR INDIVIDUALLY.”
And the helpers note that “transport can be arranged” for 501c3 rescues.
REMINDER: The Helpers have many more dogs they’re trying to help. We’ve cited Chad (right), Chance (left) and Precious and (lower left) Ranger previously. Either scroll down to find ‘em on readlarrypowell.com or go to the 4-Legged Helpers Inc. Facebook page. 
[LARRY ASIDE: I know dogs — personal experience with those who are found, those who wander up and those who are dumped; even some who were birthed in the garage! These 4 are dogs you’d want to have at your primary residence. Just a thought to help someone benefit from rescuing some dogs — our house is full or we’d have 3 new dogs and 2 new cats. And we’d try to save some of your rotten in-laws, too. But we’d give the dogs and cats first rights to the sofas and beds.]
THIS RESCUE-ONLY GUY
MAY ALREADY BE HELPED
But, maybe not. We got word of his plight from the volunteer dog biographer Debra Chisholm at the Mesquite Animal Services. You can guess from the photo that he has a genuine front-leg problem. 
Debra wrote, “This very handsome boy is Hendrix, an American Staffordshire/  American Pit Bull, Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix that was picked up as a stray by one of our officers on 5/20.  Hendrix weighs 66 pounds, is approx 1 1/2-years-old and is not neutered.  

“The back story on this precious boy is that he arrived at the shelter with an injury--a swollen right front leg--and was taken to the vet.  It was determined that the leg is broken and he had a splint and a cast placed on the leg with the hopes that it will heal without having to resort to surgery."
Friday he was scheduled to get his cast changed. We haven’t heard how that went, but he has a great face, so he was probably jake with the whole procedure. 
Debra says that he “hobbles and gets around quite well.  In spite of the injury, Hendrix has maintained a positive attitude!  He walks nicely on a leash, is kennel trained, house-trained and is a friendly and sweet-natured youngster.  He is confident, trusting and has a moderate activity level.  He was tested with another unaltered male and they did fine together.  He is low-maintenance and is content laying next to his person.  This would be a great dog for someone who works from home.”

Hendrix’ appeal ends with the reference to the challenges facing the animal-sensitive staff and volunteers at Mesquite.
The note reads, “Our shelter is critically overfull and every available space is being utilized to house our wonderful animals so please help Hendrix by networking or tagging at [email protected], typing in the subject line TAG, ID 50231416.  Please email [email protected] or call 972-216-6283 if you need further information.

[LARRY ASIDE: Somebody help him in honor of Apollo (right), the shelter dog who ran out of time at the age of 10. Save ‘em all, no matter what their age may be -- or what sort of medical challenges they're facing.  We live in the time of medical miracles. Sincerely, Larry.]
A NOTE WITH FOSTER HOPE

FROM THE GREYHOUND PEOPLE
As you probably know, the Greyhound Adoption League of Texas has worked hard to save the big hounds’ lives for years. Those people are totally dedicated to their mission.
A note arrived Friday from GALT. Oh, and that dog posing is Pumpkin. Read on. 
The GALT folks wrote, “Our foster team works hard to move our newly arriving hounds out of boarding and into foster homes quickly so that they can move on to finding forever families. Some of our hounds have special needs though, and the wait for the right foster home can take longer than we would like.

“For example, Pumpkin needs to move to a quiet foster home so that he can start his heartworm treatment. He is a bit of an alpha dog and will do best in a foster home without other dogs or with only female dogs. Pumpkin loves people and longs for cuddles. He will blossom with confidence once he is in a stable home environment.
"As you can probably imagine, foster homes without other dogs or with only female dogs that can also manage heartworm treatments are hard to find. Tripods Shyanne (below) and Iris (right) are in a similar situations, both needing foster homes without cats or small dogs until their forever families come along.”
Want to be a foster for these special cases? If you are “in the Dallas or Fort Worth areas and sometimes wonder if fostering would work for you,” get in touch with the GALT “foster team” at [email protected]. 
Could be long-term, could be just days.
FYI: Shyanne, a rescue, isn’t really a Greyhound, but GALT has kind-hearted rules that allow for “maybe a Greyhound” to get some life-saving health. That’s the way good hearts work — Save the life and check the documents later.
And, GALT says, “If you find the fostering experience rewarding (and we think you will), you can move on to offering a place to stay for a hound like Pumpkin or Shyanne that needs a special place until their forever families find them. Read more about our foster program and complete an on-line application here.
CONTEMPLATIONS
THE WEEKEND ARRIVES

During the years that readlarrypowell.com has existed, we’ve written about thousands of dogs and cats and maybe a cruiseship-load of rescuers and advocates. We’d buy all those people an entertaining ocean cruise, except we know you can’t be away from your animals that long. So, call this a figurative award honoring the size of your darned good hearts. … 

As the weekend arrives and I’m out of medical appointments for a while, let me tell you that my powers of concentration are infinitely better than they’ve been the past month as I readied myself for all the lab tests and what they mean. My anxiety drives up my blood pressure — the BP I work daily to keep down to the national target 120/70. When I first started treatment for hypertension more than a decade ago, the goal was 140/90. I don’t know why the goal changed — maybe some pharmaceutical study involving patient help and stock prices. Oh, I’m kiddin’ those pharrmmillionaires. Thank Heavens they’re handy in the USA (and China, I guess.). …
We need a song that’ll help us all lower our BP for the weekend. I think it’ll take two numbers by the wonderful performers The Mills Brothers. Accompanied by The Boston Pops, here are The Mills Brothers with Basin Street Blues and Up A Lazy River.
— MAKE YOUR WEEKEND MATTER. Click on ‘comment’ below AND LEAVE A HAPPY NOTE. —-

ALLIE DUE IN NEW YORK; MORE ANIMALS TO ADOPT; A SENIOR FELLOW FAREWELL

EDITION OF THURSDAY/FRIDAY JUNE 9/10, 2022 [PetPowellPress] Our area of Texas — and other areas — faces a common problem — overloaded shelters. Sometimes things work out and animals avoid the needle. Sometimes the pressure of circumstances is fatally overwhelming. 
We have stories today of animals saved, animals who can be saved and irresponsible behavior by people who once said they'd love a dog or cat forever. Please read on.

UPDATE ON ALLIE,
PREGNANT IN FERRIS
We told this story of this sad-eyed, expectant German Shepherd Allie in our previous edition. There’s news. The dog who was dumped out of a truck on I-45 near Ferris (saved by the city shelter’s ACO) is about to see a different life. She’s going to a rescue group in New York, according to Leanne Hayden of 4-Legged Helpers. [LARRY ASIDE: Allie’s sister Avery is also going to a rescue. We’re attempting to learn the names of the rescue groups so you can send a “thank-you” or make a donation. Also, we’ll want to keep up with Allie’s pups who, rather than being Texan, will be New York puppies. And safe.] Follow 4-Legged Helpers Inc. on Facebook.

THIS MIGHT BE A COMMON
SITUATION IN NORTH TEXAS
This came to me in a vision…I’m kidding. i saw it on a local neighborhood bulletin page. Terri, in western Fort Worth, posted this photo and a note reading “Do you know this dog? She's been hanging around [the 700 block of Candlewood Road in White Lake Hills for about a week. She's very sweet but timid. I'm posting this for my neighbor … The dog has been too shy to get in her car.” And, yes, the dog is getting food and water.
But she’s also roaming. James posted, “This dog also makes its way to Saint Lawrence and Emerald Lake. I’ve seen the dog around for almost a week.” 
Someone suggested “put her in a fenced yard” but the houses where she stops don’t have fenced yards. 

The reason readlarrypowell.com mentions this is to emphasize how tough it can be to just take in a wandering dog. There are all sorts of challenges including the biggest one: The clever dog just wants to keep wandering.
[LARRY ASIDE: Under current crowded shelter and distemper outbreak conditions, a lot of people are reluctant to call animal control. Catch and adopt may become catch and euthanize, they fear. But surely human hearts can try to "save 'em all."]
MEANWHILE IN MESQUITE:
MORE ANIMALS WAITING
This guy is Bingo, but when you look at the patches on his sides, you do wonder if “Dice” might fit, too.
He’s a 3-month-old, 15-pound high-spirited Boxer mix who came in as a stray on May 31. 
His biographer, volunteer Debra Chisholm, says that he "he ran and played with toys during his indoor photo session." And, she says, “He jumps on you continually.  This precious pooch needs obedience classes and training just like all puppies do.  He is a frisky perky little fellow who is friendly and wants to interact with a human friend.”
And he’s “figured out that if he sits, the treats will be dispensed.  He will need a person or family willing to stay committed to training and giving plenty of enrichment daily to help him become an important part of his family.” He’s #50317770.
Use that ID when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected]. 
Same contact points for these next critters, too.

 Oakley is #50350239. He a Rottweiler mix who came in on June 3 — picked up by one of the shelter officers with another dog — they’re “kenneled together” and “do fine.” Oakley is about 2, weighs 44 pounds and isn’t neutered. Debra says he is “a sweet soul, well-mannered, calm, gentle and has a mellow personality. He walks nicely on a leash. He doesn't seem to know any commands.  He likes treats and takes them gently.  He is a friendly fellow who enjoys receiving attention and affection.”
Then, there’s Betsy (#50318027), a “lively” Pittie mix who came in as a stray on May 31. She is a 25-pound, 4-months- old “high-puppy energy, spunky, enthusiastic girl.”
Debra says Betsy “loves treats and takes them gently.  Betsy walks nicely on a leash.  She loves toys and balls and would take them to a soft comfortable place in the room where I did the photo session and enjoy playing with the toy...until another one took her fancy.  She entertained herself and I found myself laughing at her antics.  She has tons of personality and is a real charmer.  Betsy needs some manners training, as do all pups, to help her fit in better with her new person or family.”
And that brings us to Roxy (#50224334). “They just don't come any cuter than this adorable girl Roxy, a mixed breed (my dog scanner app suggests Border Terrier/Chihuahua/Norfolk Terrier) that arrived at the Mesquite Animal Shelter on 5/19.” 

Roxy’s about 4 1/2 years old, weighs 11 pounds and isn’t spayed. 
Debra says, “When she came in she was very frightened and nervous in the shelter environment. She has since warmed up and I have found her now to be sweet-natured, lovable, friendly and well-mannered.  Roxy is still a bit tentative and cautious but who can blame her? …   She is a frisky, perky and enthusiastic girl.” 

Use the ID numbers when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected]. 

CONTEMPLATIONS

IRRESPONSIBLE HUMANS
AND THE FATE OF THEIR ANIMALS
A couple of editions ago we posted a note about a guy named Apollo, a “senior sweetheart.” His description read, “Apollo is a handsome mixed breed boy who weighs 62 pounds, is 10+ years old and is not neutered.  Owner admitted she has never taken him to a vet, though did just before surrendering to get a rabies shot. He has a mellow personality, is submissive, well-mannered, calm and gentle.”
In previous editions, we also have posted this paragraph about the Mesquite Animal Shelter: “Our shelter is critically overfull and we are in desperate need of folks to adopt or rescue.  Dogs continue to stream in the doors daily and there simply is no place to put them all.  Frankly most days we take in more animals than leave.”

This is a situation shared by many shelters in the North Texas sprawl. 
Thursday morning I got a note from a respected and adored foster mom who said she feared Apollo, who was dumped at the shelter on June 8, had already been “euthanized for space.” 
We checked. That was the case. Apollo was killed to make room for the next dog who would be dumped or found roaming and suddenly appear on “the list” at the shelter.
Whatever overloaded shelter a dog or cat is in, the routine is the same: Petting, talking, hugs — those things come to the animals as if they were going somewhere, but they’re really just getting a fatal injection and they die puzzled. 

We have a connection who replied to my question about Apollo. “Being a senior he was at the top of The List. … Volunteers were very upset that he was not given more time in order to find a rescue and foster. For quite some time now our shelter has been critically overfull. Pretty much on a daily basis more cats and dogs come in than leave and it is very disheartening. Rescues are full and people are not adopting as much. Not even our puppies.”

The Contemplation that I suggest is not for the shelter — those people live with laws, restrictions and are face-to-face daily with the irresponsible behavior of other humans.
This is for the people who dump their dogs and cats, the people who just “set ‘em free” on a parking lot or in a park or on a highway. It is not the shelter who kills your dogs and cats, it is YOU who killed them. It’s on your soul. Bless the rescuers, the shelter workers and the people who have to make that “needle decision.” It cannot be easy. It should not happen.
And you people who unload your inconvenient pet burdens in such awful ways...
You don’t deserve animals. Get some help. Your heart isn’t whole.
— Click on ‘comment’ below to leave an opinion. —-

DISTEMPER CASES CLOSE SPCA INTAKE/ADOPT FOR 2 WEEKS

EDITION OF WEDNESDAY/THURSDAY JUNE 8/9 [PetPowellPress] Distemper is forcing the SPCA of Texas to suspend adoptions and intake at all locations for at least two weeks, the organization announced in a news release late Wednesday afternoon.

You can get the details — including info about adoptng foster animals and those at off-site locations — by clicking this LINK
  to the SPCA news release. The target date for reopening “routine” business is June 22. 

ALLIE WAITS TO BE A MOM;
SHE IS AVAILABLE TO BE HELPED

So far this is the story of two dogs. But it looks pretty certain that there will be more. Human help is needed. 
When it comes to expectant mammals, most of us can’t really guess the due date — so, perhaps this girl Allie, by the time you read this, will no longer be a “VERY PREGNANT YOUNG GERMAN SHEPHERD.” These are photos of Allie as she waits at the Ferris Animal Shelter, one of the small facilities monitored by the non-profit 4-Legged Helpers. In mid-afternoon, the report was she had neither been helped nor adopted nor had she delivered a litter of puppies. There’s still time to get her to a “better birthing place” than a city shelter with a limited staff and a mission that isn’t “obstetrics.”
A Helpers note said transportation is available to a rescue or a foster. 
Call or text the Helpers at 214-949-2726 or email [email protected]. And, the note also reads, “Puppies just cannot be born at this shelter.  They will not make it.  Please PLEASE help. This young dog is an absolute sweetheart!  Came into the shelter with her sister Avery.  She is a smaller sized GSD.  Her sister is what we call a ‘pocket shepherd’.”
And Laura Macias of the Helpers told us, “Actually she and her sister were dumped next to the I-45 highway. I actually had seen the truck that dumped them both. I saw the truck with them in the back and then the next day the dogs were on the side of highway waiting around. I am not sure how long they had been there. I tried to get them but they were not coming to me. I had to get to work.
 The Ferris ACO found out about them and had to finally trap them both to get them. So stray, yes, but dumped, also.” 

Avery’s already tagged by a rescue, but Allie the pregnant pup is waiting.
MEANWHILE IN MESQUITE,
THREE READY TO GO
This first guy is a “senior sweetheart named Apollo,” according to the note we got from Mesquite Animal Shelter’s volunteer dog biographer Debra Chisholm. 
She says Apollo was “surrendered to the Mesquite Animal Shelter on 6/6.  Owner wrote on the form as the reason for surrender ‘can't care for him anymore’ and also stated financial hardship.  Apollo is a handsome mixed breed boy who weighs 62 pounds, is 10+ years old and is not neutered.  Owner admitted she has never taken him to a vet, though did just before surrendering to get a rabies shot. He has a mellow personality, is submissive, well-mannered, calm and gentle.  Apollo walks beautifully on a leash.  … He kept his kennel clean and when I took him outside for his photo session, he went immediately.  He was extremely interested in sniffing out the scents and I had a bit of a rough time getting him to look into the camera.  He has not yet acclimated to the noisy shelter environment and lays in his kennel shaking.” Outside, he’s calmer. He’s #50362871.
Use that ID when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected].

This is “spunky pooch Amelia.” Debra says she’s a 4-year-old “mixed breed girl that arrived as a stray on 6/3 … Amelia weighs 38 pounds and is not spayed.  She has plenty of energy with some to spare!  She is a tail-wagging, lively, playful girl with a confident demeanor.  She walks very nicely on a leash and when I led her past kennels of other dogs she did not show any aggression. … She knows the sit command and will do so continually as long as you are willing to dispense treats (which she loves).  This frisky, perky girl does jump on you in her excitement so that will be an issue needing to be addressed.  Amelia is friendly and would be more than happy to consider any adoption or rescue offers from good people as she is most anxious to find herself a new home.”
 She’s #50345481 in the shelter — use it to ID her when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected].

Debra describes Barney as a “fun-loving, happy-go-lucky” Beagle/Bassett mix who came in as a stray on the 3rd of June. [DEAR READERS, See Contemplations for the “3rd of June.”]
Barney is about a year old and weighs 31 pounds. [LARRY ASIDE: “Who’d lose a dog like this and never go to the shelter to loo for him? Sheesh…]

He’s not neutered. Might explain why he’s a wanderer. Debra writes, “There are so many good things to say about this boy and why he would make a wonderful pet.  He's playful, has an outgoing and confident personality, is energetic without being hyper and is a real sweetheart.  He has obviously been well-cared for and yet his owner has not come to reclaim.  He has adjusted ok to the shelter environment.  Timid and shy?  Absolutely not!  He sits for treats (which he loves!), may be house-trained, walks nicely on a leash and when I led Barney past kennels with other dogs barking at him, he did not show an unfriendly attitude in return.” Barney is #50347062. Use his ID when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283.
See more of Mesquite’s adorable adoptables by clicking HERE.
SOME OF THE TEXAS CARES
KITTENS; THEY WERE TWEETED
I clicked onto Twitter on Wednesday and one of the first things I saw was the photograph of an array of kittens.
It came from Texas CARES, the North Texas cat rescue-and-adopt people. I’m happy to post the photo, but, also, I really like that Texas CARES flag. 

The text with the photo reads, “Pandora, Pandemonium and Pixel are just a few of the sweet kitties we have available for adoption. Check out our website for their bios and our adoption application!”
 That website is HERE, i.e., texascares.org. You can read about the non-profit and how to get involved, too.

CONTEMPLATIONS
TUNES AND NOTES
Here’s a note “about the 3rd of June.” If you were a teenager in 1967 listening to AM radio (FM had yet to become a hot rock band, so to speak), sometime in July that year you realized that there was a skyrocketing hit by a singer named Bobbie Gentry. It was Ode to Billie Joe. And when I was writing about Barney the dog arriving as a Mesquite stray on the “third of June” I was taken back to 1967 and the opening line: “It was the 3rd of June, another sleepy, dusty delta day….” That was some year. And to hear the Ode, click HERE.
AND WHEN I WAS WRITING BARNEY BEING A WANDERING DOG, it took me back to 1961 and the early rock legend Dion and one of his big hits that seems to reflect the moods of the stray dog Barney, "The Wanderer." CLICK HERE.  
WE’LL CLOSE these contemplations with a performance of my latest song, “Don’t Frighten The Audience.” I’m kidding. Even I have some standards.
—- Offer hope or ideas by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] and put 'DROP THAT GUITAR, TUNELESS!' in the subject line. —-