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THERE HE WAS, IN THE STREET, AND THEN THERE HE WAS OWNING HEARTS...

For this edition of Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap we are celebrating.
Not just any normal everyday thing but celebrating the acquisition of a cat. And not just any cat. Nope, this is one special cat.
His name is Hastings and he survived the “mean streets of the Metroplex.” Maybe just one street. Hastings Street in Duncanville. On October 4, 2021, I lifted him off the asphalt in the southbound lane of Hastings Street in Duncanville and he settled in my heart like he belongs there. I guess he does.
 There was no human yelling, “Hey, Mister! GIMME BACK MY KITTEN!” I looked around. Nobody had a cat bed on a front porch, nobody had a feeding bowl You know what it’s like. Unwanted kitten unattended and, if gone, well, somebody says, “Gee, that’s just too bad. I told that Momma not to get herself pregnant. Let’s go get a dog.”
This kitten was probably 4 weeks old when we met. I’d parked in the lot belonging to my favorite pharmacy, The Ben Franklin Apothecary, and as I stepped away from my car, I saw a little bundle frozen in the middle of the southbound lane. A tiny bundle. (That opening photo was taken right after he’d gotten all cleaned up. Why did he need to be “all cleaned up”?
 Each of his eyes was covered by a blueberry-sized gob of “stuff” that blinded him.
Still, as I'd approached, he'd skittered across the next lane and tried to jump up on the curb and run toward some shrubbery. Sometimes kittens are too short to jump up onto a curb.

But I can move like lighting if the distance I have to cross is no farther than from my dinner chair to the refrigerator. (That’s a heftyman joke.) So I caught him as he blindly ran for Lord knows what.
The bottom line is, I immediately took the kitten to the Pet Medical Center of Duncanville and those good folks cleaned him up, gave me some directions for his care and sent us on the way that day — we revisited several times to make sure Hastings, named after the street he was crossing, was healthy enough to live with our other cats. [That's Martha feeding him in the early days of the Kitten Challenge Experience. He wasn't our first hand-fed kitten, but he was maybe the wiggliest.]
Things worked out just fine — he lived in isolation (in a big crate in Martha’s bathroom. Yet, somehow, this immunity-compromised kitten developed ringworm. You don’t think these foundlings come into your life completely healthy every time, do you?

 Mysteriously, our oldest girl cat Deputy Chief Kittie Leigh Johnson also developed ringworm — right between her ears atop her noggin. To our knowledge, she and Hastings had never been in the same room together. Never met. Never nuzzled. Never breathed the same air. Ringworm, the Mystery Pest. 
Nobody else — no dog, no cat — came down with it.  (In that photo, long after treatments, Hast' and KLJ sack out on the big bed one afternoon.)
A proper number of months later, we transferred Hastings Streetboy’s vet care to Dr. Robert Norris and the good folks at Bridge Street Animal Clinic in Fort Worth. Fewer freeway miles between the cat and his vet. There, Hastings got his “key surgery.”
[LARRY ASIDE: Kittie Leigh was cured of second-hand ringworm. She never scratches and Hastings hasn’t had a single anxious moment about dating since his surgery and he never has “that special itch” that affects too many little boy cats in Dallas/Fort Worth.]
To the left you see Hastings asleep in my office -- I'm not sure, but I believe he was dreaming of being an Olympic diver and had curled up in that position before stretching out to enter the water without a splash.  I don't know what he was thinking when he crawled into my laundry basket with a pair of socks and a couple of wash cloths -- but he was out like a light. Kind of cute. He got a lot bigger than that baby kitten, didn't he!
Hastings is the youngest cat on our staff, but he’s got a little way to go before he’s declared “the sweetest.” He’s working on it, but I keep a box of BandAids handy because he’s still trying to grasp the concept of “put the claws away” when you want to play. I’ve given him a copy of “The Cat’s Claws and Peace in Our Time.”
He has the fluffiest tail we’ve ever had in on a cat in our more than three decades of rescuing and adopting the rascals.
So, you may ask, looking at this cat with the blue eyes and the fluffy tail, “What kind of cat is this?” And I will tell you. Free. He was a free cat. Now he’s a housecat. Foundlings rarely carry their official papers.
 He sleeps where he wants — except the bedroom. Has to be invited. Deputy Chief Kittie Leigh Johnson owns it.
Cured, she is once again my nocturnal comfort cat. We both are insomniacs, but while she’s trying to sleep, she can still purr. I cannot purr — while I’m awake, anyway. I say I purr in my sleep; my funspouse Martha argues that it’s snoring. 
Even at the age of a year, Hasting will not get involved in that discussion. And Deputy Chief Kittie Leigh Johnson, asked about snoring, shakes her head and walks over to the window, flops down and watches squirrels play in the yard.
So, happy birthday, year and a couple-of-weeks old Hasting Streetboy. You’re one swell cat.
[DEAR READERS: Please send photos and bios of your slumbering critters — dogs, cats, whatever— to [email protected] and we’ll post them in our long-running weekend feature, Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. We love showing off your animals. We think it helps people decide to adopt dogs and cats. And it helps insomniacs believe they, too can get some sleep if they can figure out how to flop ’n’ purr/snore.]

— Offer sleeping advice by clicking on COMMENT below or by emailing [email protected] and put DOWN WITH RINGWORM in the subject line. —-

AN EXTRA EDITION: A SHAR-PEI IN RICHARDSON; DOGS ON THE CLOCK IN SAGINAW; & A VOICE, STARS & GRUB

EXTRA EDITION THURSDAY/FRIDAY SEPT 30/OCT 1 [PetPowellPress] We got the tip on this situation from Tami Kukla, the animal advocate who monitors several shelters, i.e., Dallas, Daingerfield and Saginaw.
This comes from the CODE RED post on the City of Saginaw Animal Services Facebook site.
It reads, “It’s official. We have 43 dogs in the shelter and are at Code Red status. These three dogs have to be out of the shelter by Monday, Oct. 3 at 5 p.m. …[The adoption fee has been] reduced to $0 in hopes someone will give them a chance. They have all been neutered, microchipped, have all of their vaccinations and Willie just completed HW treatment. If you want to adopt and have another dog at home, they must come to the shelter for a meet-and-greet. If you have any questions, please contact the shelter at 817-230-0460. If any rescue wants to pull, please PM our page or call the shelter.”
The link to the Saginaw facebook page is HERE. You can see a lot of adoptables. And that’s a bit of artwork the Saginaw folks posted on Facebook to explain the situation and inspire some rescues and adoptions. The artwork came with this text: “We are so over capacity that we currently are housing dogs in pop up crates. We HAVE to get some dogs out and we are offering an adoption special now until 10-31-22. Please come down and see if you might find a new best friend.”
AND ONE MORE SHAR-PEI
IS NEEDING A NEW HOME…
In today’s earlier edition we cited a Shar-pei mix named Roxy who needs a foster home via Paws In The City. As the evening arrived, we got a note about this “petite Shar-pei” girl Yuki, currently waiting in the Richardson Animal Shelter. She’s #22-0889D in Kennel 28D.
She came into the shelter as a stray on Sept. 19 and became adoptable on the 28th. Her bio on the Richardson website reads, “Yuki is a petite Shar-pei who most likely lived outside in her previous home. She is a bit nervous with new people and can be hand-shy and flinch when people reach out to touch her.

“She enjoys having her butt and chest scratched.” [LARRY ASIDE: That oughta give a true dogfan a lot of hope for a congenial lifestyle!’ Keep reading.]

“She has growled at our staff when they enter her kennel to leash her, but has not made any attempts to bite. 
“We are putting a no-kid restriction and a no first-time pet owners restriction on Yuki due to her fearful nature.”
So, the right person or persons to be the responsible, loving, gentle humans for this dog should contact the Richardson Animal Shelter by calling 972-744-4480 or visiting the facility at 1330 Columbia Dr. in Richardson. To LINK TO THE RICHARDSON SHELTER CLICK HERE.
CONTEMPLATIONS
MUSINGS
 MENU: TV, FRITOS & CHEESE
Will the new lower voice of Sheldon Cooper affect the ratings of Young Sheldon? New season’s first episode aired Thursday. Still a funny show. That's my cat Stevie Ray who has no idea what "The '60s" means. …
Shows I miss from The ‘60s: Burke’s Law with Gene Barry. The Jack Paar Show. Dark Shadows in the daytime. Feel free to add more by emailing [email protected]. And send photos of your slumbering animals to [email protected], also, so we'll have a weekend edition of Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap.
We don’t do politics at readlarrypowell.com, but we do take positions on American issues: Small Fritos are more powerful than Scoops. Yes or no? We offer no prize for your opinion. Best dip? If I were not on The Constant Diet, I’d say the pimento cheese from Kuby’s Sausage House & European Market in Snider Plaza on the western side of SMU. I grew up in a family that viewed pimento cheese as the Caviar of Bowie County. I’m sure your family had taste quirks, too, you carnivores! (Relax, I’m just kidding the non-vegetarians in the reading audience. Remember, my favorite vegetable is a hot biscuit.)
 And, yes, that is a photo of my sleeping personal canine companion Porche Noel giving us her impression of a properly bent Frito for dipping. Likes Fritos, too. Likes to pretend that canned catfood is a proper dip. "It is in my world," she once explained to me patiently, adding gently, "We're not all vegetarians in this house!"
—- Offer ideas or doubts by clicking on ‘comment’ or by emailing [email protected] and put VEGETARIANS ARE AMERICANS, TOO in the subject line. —-

STATE FAIR; ADOPTABLES, FOSTERABLES SUCH AS ROXY AND A '62 MOVIE

EDITION OF THURSDAY/FRIDAY/SEPT. 29-30 [PetPowellPress] Some may see September 30 as the end of the month but there are a great many of us who see it as the beginning of a gleeful stretch of fun: The great State Fair of Texas. It opens Friday and runs through October 23. Not only is it a time to enjoy the fair, but you can also get a look at the great Fair Park and its Texas Centennial-era buildings. That’s a State Fair of Texas photo of Big Tex and that night’s crowd and, in the background the Tower Building from '36, the Cotton Bowl and a spaceship landing on the midway. 
Wait, sorry, that’s The Texas Star, at 212 feet, said to be the “tallest traditional ferris wheel in North America.”
What’s your question? Oh, Big Tex is just 55 feet tall. But he doesn’t go around in circles. And I don’t want to be on top of the wheel or Tex’s hat, either. [LARRY ASIDE: What can you expect? Someone in media will do a story explaining that Big Tex began life as the Santa Claus in downtown Kerens, Texas. Oops -- I just wrote that out of a years' long habit. Check it off the to-do list.]
CHANGING DIRECTIONS
FOR A MOMENT
Now, let’s talk animals — and there’ll be some at the State Fair, but today’s animals need a place to go! Remember, you can scroll back to previous editions of readlarrypowell.com and spot some animals still waiting for adoption or fostering. We also have some Contemplations, but no politics. I’m on my third cup of coffee — if these letters are too fast andseemtoruntogether, that’s why. Ommm. Ommm. Calming myself now.
SHADOW AND SHILOH,
TWO DOGS AMONG MANY
We’re continuing to make an effort to help Mesquite Animal Services reduce it’s available adorables population — dogs, cats, whatever they’ve got that showed up either being dumped or roaming streets of the eastern suburb of Dallas.

We got the skinny on Shadow from volunteer Mesquite dog biographer Debra Chisholm who describes this Lab mix as a “cute-as-a-button pup.” 
Shadow, about 4 1/2 months old and 25 pounds, came in as a stray on September 14.
Debra then writes, “Let me tell you all about her wonderful qualities. She's the whole puppy package--an exuberant, happy-go-lucky, fun-loving youngster with a moderate activity level.  She doesn't even jump on you!  She walks well on a leash and when led past dogs in other crates she did not react to their barking at her.  She knows the sit command and will do so for treats which she takes gently.  Though not particularly interested in toys or balls, she is interested in getting loving attention from a human friend. ... She would be ideal for the person or family looking for a young dog to train and provide a loving forever home in which she will be allowed to live inside with her people.  This little girl has captured my heart!”

Shadow is #51115112. Use that ID number when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityof mesquite.com. Same system for  making contact on behalf of Shiloh (#51153018) — we learned about Shiloh from volunteer dog biographer Judi Brown.
 She reports that “Shiloh LOVES toys and will entertain himself with them! When I put them back in the basket when we were leaving the room, he went and got them back out again!”
Shiloh is a year-and-a-half old, 25-pound, not-fixed Blue Heeler who came in as a stray on the 20th. The “very sweet” boy, Judi writes, is “also gentle, calm, laid-back, obedient, well mannered, loving, alert, fun loving, and playful. He stays close looking up at you for affirmation and for extra attention. He’s curious — and explored the laundry room. He’s sits for treats and takes them gently. 
“When I sat down he came to me and put his head in my lap. He was also generous with kisses. He walks very well on the leash! This Heeler heels!  He has been taken to the vet and is recovering from a URI. He also has dry eyes which he’s receiving medication for. He has had a head trauma from an unknown source. There’s a bump on his forehead. It doesn’t appear to bother him. Because of the URI, I didn’t introduce him to other dogs. However when he walked by other dog kennels he did not have a reaction. Shiloh  is a real prize and anyone could be very proud to be his owner. He would make them proud! He would like to be able to call you his family and as part of your family would like to share your house with you.”
As you know, the crowded Mesquite Animal Services Shelter has a website that lists adorable and adoptable cats and dogs. You can see the roster by clicking on the LINK HERE.
Lots of grown up dogs. Lots of not-so-grown-up kittens. And, there also are some adult cats. This one happens to have a “very Dallas name.” As in TV's Dallas. She is Sue Ellen (#50995309), a 2-year-old Domestic Shorthair Mix — small girl with black-and-white coloring and the ability to sit and pose in a city kennel. Because she meets the feline qualification, she is in the Cat Room. Use her ID number when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected].
IN THE MEANTIME, TAKE
A GANDER AT ROXY!
(CALL HER ‘FOSTERABLE’)
I saw the photos of Roxy before I saw the appeal for help with finding her a happy life! She’s one of many animals in the care of Dallas-based Paws In The City.
As you can see from Teresa Berg’s great photography, Roxy knows how to pose for the camera! Paws In the City is searching for that perfect foster for this girl.
Roxy’s bio reads that she is a “54-pound, 4-year-old Shar-pei mix with medium energy who loves to follow her person from room to room. She is good with other dogs of similar size and energy.” Her earlier listing on the Paws in the City website lists her as a 47-pound, year-old Shar-pei mix. So, you can see, she’s grown a bit and become very fosterable.
The note we got from Paws in the City reads, “She is 100% potty-trained, has good recall, sleeps all night in her crate and loves to lounge at your feet, in a doggy bed or out on a patio in the sun. She knows sit, place, down, and comes when she is called.  She is excellent on a walk and is non-reactive to other dogs.”
 She simply needs, the appeal read, someone to give “Roxy a place to stay while she waits for her forever home.”
To volunteer to foster or adopt Roxy, go to pawsinthecity.org and click on the adopt link or the foster link or — if you don’t have room at your house but want to help — click on the volunteer link and get involved. And this is the link that takes you directly to Roxy’s page.
CONTEMPLATIONS
BIG TEX, HOMERS & A MOVIE
The State Fair of Texas belongs in Fair Park in Dallas, doesn’t it! FYI: It’s the State Fair of Texas, not “the Texas State Fair.” Names matter, declared Laree Pal. Yes, that's a an early '50s version of Big Tex on the midway -- it's in the photo collection at bigtex.com. When you’re at wonderful Fair Park for the Fair this year, possibly attending a Creative Arts contest — painting, photography, collections, baking cookies, cakes, pies, etc. — you’ll probably spot many people helping the State Fair conduct those contests. They’ve put a lot of hours into organizing things so they’ll look right and run smooth as a city slicker’s electric car. For years, my funspouse Martha and I have watched these people work tirelessly and happily n behalf of Big Tex and the State Fair of Texas. They’re the greatest — probably inspired the opening song to that 1962 film State Fair. Rogers and Hammerstein’s salute begins, “Our State Fair is a great state fair/Don’t miss it, don’t even be late.….” 
OK, New York Yankee slugger Aaron Judge has tied the great Roger Maris’ title-holding total of 61 home runs in an American League season, consider these points: (1) Roger Maris, who won pennants with the New York Yankees and the St. Louis Cardinals ) should be in the Baseball Hall of Fame. (2) No telling how many homers Judge will add to his 2022 regular season total when he faces Texas Rangers pitching for three games in Arlington as the season draws to a close. Once again, Rangers fans, “Wait ’til next year!”
OK, ONE MORE STATE FAIR NOTE: About that 1962 State Fair film: Click HERE . Filmed (mostly) at the 1961 State Fair of Texas in Big ol’ D. If you watch the film, starring North Texas State University product Pat Boone and future Elvis Viva Las Vegas co-star Ann-Margret, look for the monorail in the Fair Park scenes. I mention the monorail in honor of the late Dallas City Council Member Max Goldblatt who campaigned to have monorails built for public transit. Dallas with monorails — that would have looked like the future even though it was an idea from the past. Instead, we got big yellow buses, and for a while, big pink buses with rabbit ears looping through downtown. Remember the Hop-a-Bus? Yeah, I hopped on and rode down the bunny trail a time or two. Never in a bunny suit.
—- Offer transit advice or diet tips by clicking on ‘comment’ or by emailing [email protected] and put MIND THE MIDWAY TREATS, HEFTY in the subject line. —-

FOR MID-WEEK, A MONTH OR MORE OF OPPORTUNIES AND CONTEMPLATIN'

EDITION OF WEDNESDAY PM/THURSDAY SEPT. 28-29, 2022 [PetPowellPress] I looked out our kitchen window about 9:30 a.m. Wednesday and there was a dragonfly, illuminated by the morning sun, circling and darting about in the airspace between the previous owner’s Bald Cypress tree and the mailbox. No idea who’d send U.S. mail to a dragonfly at our address probably a catalog he’s awaiting. Also, I thought dragonflies were all hip to computer communication — who can fly like that these days without a chip in their system? No. I did not get a photo of the Anisopteran creature. Too quick the bug; too slow the goofball with a keyboard. While I do not have a photo of the dragonfly, I was discussing this later with my private feline confidant Stevie Ray, who I plucked from a flimsy mimosa branch when he was about 5 weeks old. As I spoke on the joy of watching a dragonfly, Stevie Ray said, “Watch this. I can leap and land and nod off with all the skill of a dragonfly lighting on a lilypad in a farm pond. Wake me Oh, and remind the Dear Readers to send bios and photos of their slumbering critters to [email protected] so you’ll stop whining about using Porche’s photo too often in Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap.” He’s a such a smart fellow. Oh, yes,. that’s Porche.
OK, here we go with today’s report — Thanks to hardworking volunteers with big hearts, we’ll look into shelters and into rescue projects.
A QUICK LOOK
IN DALLAS’ SHELTER
One of the most overly-populated animal shelters in the known universe, Dallas Animal Services and Adoption Center is constantly in need of fosters and adopters. Why? To keep from having to use the needle on so many animals betrayed by humans.
 For example, this cat is Luna (A1140588), currently in foster carr. She’s a 6-pound, year-old Domestic Short Hair with a face made for photography. To ask about her, call the shelter at 214-670-6800 or email [email protected]. 
The shelter is at Westmoreland and I-30 on the western side of downtown Dallas. 
No adoption fee for Luna. 

And that brings us to Hula (#A1154608) —- this 8-month-old, 25-pound spayed pup needs a foster home. Her bio reads that she came into DAS as a “stray with crusty scabs and hair loss.”
DAS reports that a medical exam revealed that Hula has Demodex mange (“responding to treatment); “has an oblique fracture of the left femur” and needs “Crate rest 6 weeks; leash walks only. re-Radiograph in 5-6 weeks to assess healing.”
Why a foster home? Her bio reads, “Hula is taking longer to recover than expected and could really use a place to recover and get better. She loves being petted and is so cute .”
See more DAS animals on Facebook HERE and on BeDallas90.org which is also where you can apply to be the foster that babies Hula back to full and happy health.
MEANWHILE, IN SHELTERS
THAT QUALIFY AS ‘SMALL’
Yeah, they’re small, alright. But the population is always on the rise in the small, virtually unnoticed shelters on the outskirts of big ol’ Dallas. Those shelters and their animals are also the focus of 4-Legged Helpers.
We’ve mentioned Luna and Copper and Patch and Piper before, thanks to the hard work of Laura Macias and the Helpers.

The bio of Ace reads, “This sweetheart was found as a stray. The couple that found him liked him so much that they came back to play with him. They had brought him to the shelter in hopes his owner would reclaim him, but their hearts are breaking that such a sweet loving pup has no one desperately looking for him. Our hearts are breaking, too. Just look into those soulful eyes. Who will say yes to this boy…? 
And Fancy is Boston Terrier mix who is under a year old. Why is Fancy in the shelter? Her bio reads, “Fancy's owners simply didn't want her anymore, so they loaded her up in the car and brought her to the shelter. No one will ever know the exact reasons why they gave her up. She tried to be the best little dog she could be, but it just somehow wasn't enough. Now she is sitting at the shelter alone, so scared, and wondering how her life took this tragic turn. We know that someone out there will think she's enough. Cute enough, sweet enough, good enough. She will make someone the perfect companion someday. We will learn and share more about her as she settles in, realizes she's safe, and begins to reveal her personality. More to come about this cutie.”
To ask about helping the 4-Legged Helpers with these animals, call or text 214-949-2726 or email [email protected]. And the 4-LEGGED HELPERS INC. Facebook LINK TO MORE PHOTOS AND ADORABLE ADOPTABLES IS HERE.

MEANWHILE IN MESQUITE
THERE ARE THESE ADORABLES
Readlarrypowell.com is so fortunate to have two great Mesquite Animal Shelter volunteer contacts, the dog biographers Judi Brown and Debra Chisholm. That’s how we learn of the many, many animals waiting for adoption at the shelter. 

We picked this one to lead the item with because of (1) the opening sentence and (2) our all-grown-up granddaughter’s name. Judi opened the bio with, “Another name for Hannah could be Sugar as she’s that sweet!” [LARRY ASIDE: Our Hannah is also a sweetie — with a wicket sense of humor. Some say she got it from her father, Bart. No idea where he got it, of course.]
 Back to Hannah the Adorable Adoptable: Judi writes, “As soon as you meet her you know that she is very special. She is a 2-year-old, 40-pound brown and white Pittie that arrived at the Mesquite Animal Shelter on 9/21 as a stray. She is not spayed. She’s so calm and gentle you could take her fishing with you and she wouldn’t disturb the fish. She’s friendly, cheerful, loving, well mannered, obedient, and a people pleaser. She doesn’t know the sit command but you can tell by the way she looks at you that she wants to do whatever you’re asking her to do. … She is a diamond in the rough. I see her as a real cuddlebug as she’s such a sweetheart!”
Hannah is #51164482 at the shelter — as is the system for all animal inquiries, use the ID number to help when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected].
The dog on the left is Pearl and her sibling is Phoebe, the pup with whom she’s bonded. They came in on the 21st as strays with their mom (already adopted). Phoebe is #51168206; Pearl is #51168191. Phoebe is described by Debra as a “little live wire” who is, according to the Dog Scanner app, a pup with Terrier and Boxer “in the mix.” Phoebe is about a year-old, not spayed and weighs 28 pounds. 
Debra describes Pearl as a 2-year-old, 36-pound “adorable chunky little girl.” These pups have a lot of fun playing together and, Debra writes, “would certainly keep an adopter entertained.” 
Both are friendly, tail-wagging charmers. 
The report from the volunteer biographers included reports on Blue Heeler Shiloh (#511153018), Lab-mix Honey (#49985966, Boxer-mix Buster (#52276680) and Gulliver (#52276664), a Malinois mix. 
You can read their biographies by going to the Mesquite Animals-in-the-Shelter LINK HERE.
And at that site, you can also see lots other dogs and cats available for adoption including Aspen (we needed an autumn-sounding name) who is #50970230. She’s a year old, medium-sized cat who came into the shelter on Aug. 24 and is waiting for the right human in — where else — the Cat Room.
CONTEMPLATIONS
IS THERE A THOUGHT TODAY?
Have you adjusted to waking up chilly yet? Yes, there has been a big difference in the morning temps in North Texas. Rather have a gentle temp drop than a blizzard. Didn’t have to do a lot of thinkin’ to come up with that sentence. …
Best summer vacation I ever had as a kid? Easy. Railroad passenger train ride to El Paso from Texarkana (you loaded through a passenger car door in Arkansas and walked to your seat in Texas. The once-glamorous and well-protected Union Station was built so that the state line runs right through it. Nowadays nothing runs through it. Maybe some freight trains, Amtrak now and then and, perhaps, a vagrant trying to hoof it from one state to the other to avoid prosecution for dawdling. (Not sure dawdling is still a crime in either state.) …
We need a good song for this particular day. Here’s something from the Liverpudlian fellows from the 20th Century — in honor of a particular fan of dogs and cats I happen to know.
— OFFER SOMETHING SMART BY CLICKING ON ‘COMMENT’ BELOW OR BY EMAILING [email protected]. —-

ZEKE'S CURRENT LIFE; ANIMALS WAITING FOR SOME HELP; WHAT HAPPENED TO THE "T"?

EDITION OF TUESDAY, SEPT. 27, 2022 [PetPowellPress] The load of odd emails continues unabated on my computer. For example, this morning I got the 2nd notice with this subject line “You have won an Club Car Golf Cart.” Immediately I write this off as a scam because of a grammar error: It’s “a” not “an.” If this were a genuine win of “an million bucks,” I wouldn’t take the dough. And why is that? Because I know I are right about grammar mattering. Even at this stage of the uncertain 21st Century.
A FOLLOWUP ON ONCE-STARVING
DALLAS SHELTER DOG ZEKE
On September 5 we posted a photo of Zeke the Starving Dog as he waited for the needle in Dallas. That’s the skinny boy — 5 years-old, 45 pounds and high EU risk because of shelter space and a “High Positive” Heartworm diagnosis.
People were already trying to rescue this guy when we learned about him from Tami Kukla, the animal advocate. 
And she tipped us on Sept. 7 about Zeke beating the needle at DAS. That’s a photo of the “painfully thing” fellow on his “getaway” ride.

Where was he going? To a Lost Ball Canine Rescue  foster home in Houston.
And that final photo shows Zeke with some extra weight on him and the other shows him as a happy non-in-a-shelter-but-in-a-loving-home situation.
Tami sent us a follow up note with info on how to contribute to Lost Ball Canine Rescue in the effort to make sure Zeke gets healthy and finds a good home. Tami listed these connections: PayPal: lostballcanine [email protected]; Venmo:  @JaimeLou-Fleming or U.S. Mail at Lost Ball Canine Rescue, 228 Lost Ball Road, Tallulah, Louisiana  71282
Tami also sent us a note about Zeke that began, “Like weigh-ins for boxing, our boy Zeke gets his chance to be Rocky Balboa. Zeke was emaciated and his body score was painfully low. You could see every rib. But he has such an incredible personality and shows what perseverance means. In 9 days he has gained 12 pounds through a specially tailored feeding schedule and routine. His coat is shining. He loves other dogs his size. And is getting to be a dog. …. None of this would be possible without the amazing team that advocated for him and saved him …  And his foster Lori. Supporting Lost Ball saves many lives. And did you know that daily they answer the call from shelters in Texas and California (to just name a few). In fact in a 48 hour period they saved 3 dogs from Dallas Animal Services that all needed medical. Those are super heroes in my opinion and they should be personally thanked by each of us and the shelters they support.”
4-LEGGED HELPERS
AND SMALL SHELTERS….
The challenges continue as 4-Legged Helpers keeps working on the goal of getting spotlights on animals in small shelters in the Metrosprawl. 
The Helpers are adjusting procedures in an attempt to get more eyes on these animals. You can see the hard work by visiting the Helpers’ Facebook page HERE.

[LARRY ASIDE: I’ve copied the latest Helpers’ post here, but you’ll need to go to that Facebook page to see more animals in need. The connections will help you help them. Also, to reach the Helpers and make a “tag” or adopt, call or text: 214-949-2726 or email: [email protected] ]

MEANWHILE IN MESQUITE:
A QUARTET NEEDING HELP
Interested in helping one of these (or any dog or cat in the Mesquite Animal Shelter) use the animal’s shelter ID number when you call 972-216-6283 or email [email protected].
Gemini [ID #51058064] is the first on today’s Mesquite list of adoptables. She’s about 2, weighs 52 pounds, isn’t spayed and came in as a stray on Sept. 6. Our tipster, the volunteer dog biographer Debra Chisholm says the Dog Scanner app “suggests American Akita, Jindo, Malinois in the mix.”
Debra writes, “She has such a pleasant personality, is friendly and is a-ok with receiving loving attention. She came in looking ‘wild and woolly’ and one of our volunteers spent some time brushing her out.  She stood straight and tall, and motionless during the brush-out.  Doubtless she felt better with some of that excess fur gone!” Gemini is good on a leash, house-trained, and “a frisky and spunky girl with a moderate activity level.  She is athletic and enjoyed climbing up and down on the play equipment in the yard.  Gemini wasn't interested in toys or balls.  She knows the sit and shake commands  She likes treats and takes them gently.  There is so much to like about this beauty and she would make a wonderful companion for some person or family.”
This guy with the BIG SMILE and the BIG FEET is Wizard [#51133563], a Pittie who came in as a stray on the 16th — he’s about 4, weighs 65 pounds and isn’t neutered. Debra writes, “This is one high-energy boy who is athletic and agile.  He enjoyed playing on the climbing equipment in the yard.  He went potty in the yard.  He doesn't understand his own strength and can get overexcited and will jump on you so would not be a good fit for a home with young children. Wizard would perhaps be a good fit for a home with adolescent boys who would play with him and work out some of that energy.  He thoroughly enjoyed stretching his legs in the yard and running around.  He seems to want to please but has possibly not had much training.” 

This dog with the well-lit ears is Penelope (#51133554) — Debra says the Dog Scanner app “suggests Carolina Dog and Terrier in the mix.” She came in as a stray on the 16th, is about 2 years old and weighs 40 pounds and, yes, is not spayed. Debra writes, “Penelope is an on-the-move girl who doesn't slow down much. She is confident and outgoing and has a moderate activity level.  She is friendly and is happy to climb on the lap of a trusted human friend and receive loving attention. She likes and takes treats gently.  Penelope does not seem to know any commands.  She walks well on a leash.  She is friendly and sweet-natured.  … Even though she has adapted OK to life in the shelter she would be thrilled to get adopted by a person or family who would stay committed and would allow her to be part of the family inside and provide plenty of playtime, exercise and training.”
Blue (#511090844) is a 4-year-old, 72-pound “Terrier mix” who arrived as a stray on the 13th. Not neutered, of course. Debra writes “He was so happy to be in the yard stretching his legs and running around and especially liked playing with toys.  He is passionate about toys!  He seems to prefer that to nearly everything else including treats and interacting with human friends.  He is OK on a leash.  Blue went potty immediately upon entering the yard.  He is friendly and likes attention but doesn't seek it out.  He is a high-spirited fellow, spunky and lively.  He seems a bit headstrong and determined.  Blue doesn't seem to know any commands.  Again, he is happiest and most content when he has a toy to play with.”
AND REMEMBER THIS CONSTANT MESSAGE FROM MESQUITE’S SHELTER: “There are so many wonderful dogs (and cats!) in our critically overcrowded shelter who could use a good home so please help if you are able.” Click on this Mesquite Shelter LINK to see the many dogs and cats waiting for loving homes. Among those kittens (those many, many kittens) is 4 1/2-month old Katniss (#50700232), a small girl who came into the shelter on July 19. You can visit this “Domestic Shorthair Mix” in the Mesquite Animal Shelter’s Conference Room. [LARRY ASIDE: My experience is that cats and kittens all love a good conference. Lets ‘em show off their executive skills.]
LOOKING FOR PHOTOS
OF SLEEPING DOGS, NAPPING CATS
Each weekend we post photographs and stories in our long-running weekend feature, Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. We do, of course, need some photos of YOUR slumbering critters and their stories: Send the stories and photos to [email protected]. If you do not send photos of your animals, I will be forced to publish yet another photograph of my darling dog, Porche Noel, found on the porch at Christmas in 2009 and my loving companion ever since. She now has an agent, so I don’t know how much longer I can exploit her image before I have to start paying her. Thank you for your cooperation, Dear Readers. Your stories inspire other people to adopt and adore dogs and cats and other domesticated animals who nod off at your house because you’ve given them a safe, comfortable existence.
CONTEMPLATIONS
THINGS IN THE UNIVERSE….
You see the latest story about NASA sending a projectile to crash into an astroid six million miles away? What if, in way-off space, that is interpreted as an act of war? Guess we’ll find out. ….
There’s a certain style of talking now in which people drop the “t” sound out of a word. Over the weekend I heard a newscaster refer to the Russian leader as “Pu’in.” I don’t know why it’s so tough to use that “t” in a two syllable word. Don’t t’s me, y’know. I’m not from Ma’ha’an or Li’le Rock — I’m originally from ‘exarkana. ….
Changing coasts, we go back in time to 1982 with Moon Unit Zappa. Completely within the Contemplation themes of “different languages” and “Things in The Universe.”
—- Offer wisdom by clicking on ‘comment’ or by emailing [email protected] and put LOOK TO THE FUTURE in the subject line. —-

A PEPPER UPDATE; CITING SOME OPPORTUNITIES; CONTEMPLATING THE WAY THINGS GO

EDITION OF MONDAY, SEPT. 26, 2022 {PetPowellPress] Pepper’s out of the Mesquite Animal Shelter. More on that monumental event in a moment. 

Here are some key Calendar notes: 
Checking on the calendar with Holiday Insights, I learned that Sept. 6 was Read a Book Day — anybody still working on that? The 26th is Johnny Appleseed Day — learn about that by reading a book. (That’s the cover of the 1949 Disney Golden Book, just fyi. Easy to read, I’ve heard.) 
And September 27 is “Crush A Can Day.” Yep, just crush an empty can. Ah, but the 28th is “Ask a Stupid Question Day.” I’ve celebrated that for years — and never restricted it to September 28. For example, here’s a stupid question on the 26th: “Will chocolate-chip cookies with an inch of vanilla ice cream pressed between them ruin my diet?” OK, let’s try to help some animals.
THE PEPPER SITUATION
GETS TO A HAPPY SPOT!
Last week we wrote about this guy Pepper, a long-time resident of the Mesquite Animal Shelter.
“Long-time” is an understatement.
As the weekend arrived, we got a celebratory note from our Mesquite tipster, the volunteer dog biographer Debra Chisholm.
 She wrote, “Pepper left today with his foster! We would love to give a shout out to Dallas Pets Alive for rescuing our sweet boy. 

“He was at the shelter for 337 days, the longest stay ever for a dog at the Mesquite Animal Shelter.
“He managed to stay sweet, patient and loving that entire time! Would love it if you could post this update in your next edition."
And we’re doing just that with this item. Debra added, “We couldn’t be happier for precious Pepper!!!! This is Pepper with his foster. We are certainly hoping for a foster fail!”
Yep, two fellows who are meant for each other -- time will quickly tell. Looks good so far.
[WE HAVE MORE MESQUITE ANIMALS IN A MOMENT]
A NOTE FROM OUT AT THE LAKE
ABOUT DUCHESS THE CAT
Pretty and regal simultaneously, isn’t she! 
The email we got from Sydney Busch of Friends of the Animals at Cedar Creek Lake had this headline “Duchess the cat ready for her new family!”
As you probably know, the Friends operate (so to speak) the World’s Most Successful Spay/Neuter Clinic at Gun Barrel City, Texas. 

The note about this glorious cat reads, “Duchess has been fixed and microchipped and is ready for her new home.”
The email contact is [email protected].
 Or, you can get in touch with Kaufman-based Furry Friendzy Animal Rescue and Wildlife Rehab by clicking HERE.  There’s a clickspot for the adoption application.
MEANWHILE BACK
AT MESQUITE’S SHELTER
Our pal Judi Brown, volunteer dog biographer at Mesquite Animal Services, sent us a couple of dog notes — one is about Shelby, the other about Tess.

Regarding Shelby, Judi writes, “If the shelter was passing out happy pills I would’ve thought Shelby had taken one. It’s a case for the tail wags the dog. She’s so happy to see you that her joy is infectious. She is a 1-!/2-year-old striking  tricolored Pittie that arrived at the Mesquite Shelter on 9/16 is a stray. She weighs 42 pounds. She is not spayed.

“I feel like if you could ask her what she wants more than anything, I think her answer would be to be loved. She didn’t even explore the yard as she stayed close wiggling all the time and looking up at me with adoring eyes. She would occasionally jump on me but immediately got down when told to do so. … She wants to please. She sits for treats and is highly motivated by them. This being the case she should be easily trainable. She is alert and curious. She chased balls and toys but didn’t seem to know what to do with them. She would just look at them and then come right back to me. When I sat down she came to me to have her ears scratched and gave me lots of kisses. Of course her tail was wagging the whole time!  … She would love to snuggle up with you on the couch at night. She even told me she’d watch the Cowboys games with you if you wanted.”

Shelby is #51133494 at the shelter — use that # when you call 972-216-6283 or email [email protected]. 
Same system for any animal in the Mesquite shelter, including this other acquaintance of Judi’s, a “bundle of joy” named Tess [#51150022].

Tess is a year-old, weighs 41 pounds and is a “brindle terrier mix” who was surrendered on Sept. 19 because of “her owner’s allergies.”
As Judi writes, “So, through no fault of her own she finds herself at the Mesquite Animal Shelter waiting for you. Her brindle coloring, her small stature and her standup ears make her adorable! Cute as she is, it was difficult to get pictures of her because when she got out in the yard she had a lot of nervous energy. Then, too, she stayed so close to me I was going around in circles trying to get pictures of her. She is definitely friendly, outgoing, sociable, happy and very loving. Her tail wagged constantly. She sits for treats and takes them gently. She was not interested in playing with toys and balls. She wanted to spend the whole time with me. … Because she is highly motivated by treats, and because she wants to please it should be easy to teach her not to [jump on a human in excitement]… Not only is she a cutie pie, she’s also really sweet.”
As you know, Mesquite has lots of dogs and cats available for adoption and rescue. You can see them at THIS LINK.

Among the cats is this nearly 6-months-old fellow Albert who we’ve featured before. Why is it important to to keep mentioning how to see the animals in the Mesquite Shelter?
The answer is in this paragraph Judi included in one of her dog biographies. It reads:

“Our shelter is overflowing now so if you cannot tag or adopt please network this cute girl. Also please send friends and family members to the Mesquite Animal Shelter to find a lifelong friend! Please tell friends, neighbors and relatives that we are bursting at the seams and have many loving companions waiting for them.”
CONTEMPLATIONS
ASSORTED MONDAY NOTES…..
Why does readlarrypowell.com usually close with some Contemplations? Because sometimes a person just grows weary of the sadness of dogs and cats waiting for rescue from a shelter, a yard, a situation, a challenge or criminal involvement. I have to find something else to think about and I don’t mean I spend time thinking about a way to turn off the “mayhem meter” ticking in the brain of any strong-arming Russian leader. Geezalou, that is such a disturbing situation. I stupidly thought that by 2000 mankind would have stopped dreaming up new excuses for going to war…
My girl Porche Noel can sometimes be found on her Dream Pad atop her Transcendental Rug of Contemplation and Anticipation — always expecting a treat. So, when I hit a rough spot in the process, I’ll turn and look at her. If she’s looking back at me, I know she either wants a treat or a song. And I’ll sing…I’m kidding. If I were to sing, she’d call her lawyer. …

The challenge of a daily website about dogs and cats is not that there are so many in a bad spot to write about, it’s that you worry that the message isn’t getting to enough people with great hearts and places to keep another dog or cat or dog and cat. Sometimes you have to be willing to proudly wear the label “ANIMAL NUT” in order to save the lives of deserving animals. And all animals deserve a human trying to help them live out a long and good life.
The kindness of humans is the only thing standing between this planet and the demise of decency and love for other good and decent souls — humans or animals. So, let’s put the nukes back in their rental storage units in Chernobyl and get busy loving one another in spite of tiny, insignificant political issues. Talk smart, don’t shoot. How’s that for an international bumper sticker?
—- Offer peaceful notions by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] and put HEY, ANIMAL NUT/PEACENIK! in the subject line. —-

EVER THINK ABOUT THE VALUE OF THAT CRITTER WHO OWNS YOUR HOME?

I don’t know how much you paid for your dog, but we didn’t pay a dime for any of ours. Doesn’t mean they have no value, right? .
You’ve probably got stories about the value of  the dogs and cats that you share life with. We’re going to cite some valuable animals in this edition of Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. Very valuable.
What inspired this “price tag” review?
 During the week, an investment-themed magazine published an on-line story titled “The Most Expensive Dog Breeds In The World." 
Yes, an investment-themed publication. Of course, our dogs have always been wise investments that pay off with huge dividends. Just like your dogs, right, Dear Readers? Our dogs are, as the expert gambler say, “Money!” The dog food companies also say that. Don’t get me started on cats invaluable.
Because I have handy photos of them, I decided to focus on Kittie Leigh, William and Porche. You see that opening photo? That is from 2014 and shows Martha home from work and out-like-a-light on the couch. A young Porche Noel is on top of her just before nodding off and Deputy Chief Kittie Leigh Johnson is contemplating a landing spot to help Martha nap. 
Porche joined the household at Christmas in 2009, Deputy Chief Kittie Leigh Johnson arrived in Autumn 2011 and Martha arrived in December 1991 — she is the best-behaved of all.

William Powell, my office cat since 2018, sometimes joins Porche on her Pad of Peaceful Contemplation. A veteran at office work, William prepared the Uniformed Mammalian Assessment Forms for this edition. And the DOV Results (Determination of Value Results) were:

Deputy Chief Kittie Leigh Johnson: “Unanimous household vote declaring vast undetermined value to specific humans.”
Porche Noel: “Worth quite a lot in the intergalactic community.” 

And Martha: “Easily worth more than the total of the national debt.” (Her dog Dudley the Angel, right) counted those alleged votes and wrote the report.)
The value of that older near-human fellow with Porche in the sleeping photo (left)? The written evaluation from Porche and co-signed by several others in the household read: “Not worth two bits.” No one protested. [Below, you see Porche and William shoving each other off the Contemplation Mat.]

Here’s what set off this “How much is your dog worth” theme. And I’ll admit I was a tad miffed when I this story. When I opened the AOL link last week, this is one of the things I saw:
“ADVERTISEMENT
The Most Expensive Dog Breeds In The World
If You Look Closely You'll Understand Why These Dogs Are So Pricey."
I looked closely; I still don’t understand it. Keep “Chug” in your mind. 
Now, I did find these three breeds among the more than 100 cited in this report: The New Guinea Singing Dog  (Has a “voice” for “singing” — that sounds like something I’d make up, but it’s not), the Hovawart (comes from melding the German words for yard or farm and watchman) and the Chug — that’s a Chihuahua/Pug mix. [LARRY TRUTHFUL ASIDE: If you check the local shelters every day you’ll probably run into a low-cost or free Chug pretty quickly. Ironic that some people will work to breed dogs that just show up through irresponsibility in the Metrosprawl shelters.]
If you want to read about those “Most Expensive Dog Breeds in the World,” here is the LINK.  
And, FYI, the dog value story was first published in either late 2020 or early 2021 and updated on March 14, 2022. It was (again) posted online last week. This demonstrates why, when you see a story online, you need to check the source and the time of publication, otherwise you’ll be getting all breathlessly excited over something that happened when you were in third grade and missed it the first time around.
I'm hoping to write a book titled "RELAX LIKE PORCHE AND FEEL LIKE A MILLION BUCKS."
[DEAR READERS: Send photos of your sleeping dogs or napping cats to [email protected] and tells us their stories so we can spotlight them in our long-running weekend feature Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. You may be helping a Chug find a home by demonstrating the inestimable value of a domicile dog. Or you may convince an insomniac that he can get some sleep if he’ll quit listening to quiet cello music and stream Verdi’s treasured opera, The New Guinea Singing Dog Runs Away With Pagliacci’s Circus. It may sound better in the original Italian: “Il cane canoro della Nuova Guinea scappa con il circo di Pagliacci.”]

— Offer advice by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] and put DOGS AND CATS INVENTED VALUABLE in the subject line.  —-

FOR FRIDAY, AN EARHUND, OTHER RESCUES, A FAMED COCKER AND CACTUS JOE....

EDITION OF FRIDAY, SEPT. 23, 2022 [PetPowellPress] When I was a kid, you couldn’t watch TV for 5 minutes without seeing a Winston cigarette commercial. Now you can’t watch TV for 5 minutes without seeing a commercial for pills that’ll cure you or kill you, gutters that keep you off ladders or bathroom showers that can be installed in a happy half-hour. Thought I’d open with a viewing gripe. 
Now, here are some animals that need some help. We’re going to mention that Earhound Hamp. And the Groundhog of Autumn, too. Keep reading.
A PUPPY IN ATHENS
WAITING FOR A HOME
We got multiple notices about this guy and, maybe, by the time you check with the human, the dog will have a happy home. The puppy’s life has started out pretty darned dicey. Yeah, humans are trying to make up for the behavior of humans who abandoned this guy.
Here’s the headline. “Urgent! Stray puppy needs home or rescue — Athens, Tx.” (LARRY ASIDE: I prefer to spell out Texas. You can abbreviate the other states if you want.]
Anyway, the message reads, “Puppy 4–5 months old dumped on us 9/21. Australian Cattle Dog mix, about 15 pounds, very friendly. No history on this dog, but we must find a home for him or we will have to put him down next week. Any help appreciated. Dog is located in Athens, Texas; no room in local shelter.   Contact:  [email protected]​.”
Succinct — and clear and threatening because of circumstances.

MEANWHILE IN MESQUITE
A COUPLE OF EX-STRAYS…
These bios come from our pal Debra Chisholm, volunteer dog writer for Mesquite Animal Services Shelter. There’s also a note about how crowded this shelter is. [LARRY ASIDE: Pass it on to everybody on your address list. Make calls. Ask for a special moment on behalf of animals at worship services! Prayers seem to be needed.]

First up is Annie, who she describes as a “high-energy American Pit pup that was picked up by one of our officers and brought to the Mesquite Animal Shelter on 9/9 as a stray.  Annie has been in protective custody since her arrival but is now available for adoption or rescue.  She weighs 27 pounds, is approx 10 months old and has just gotten spayed.  Annie has lots of puppy energy and personality.  She likes to play with toys and is thrilled to receive treats.  She doesn't sit for them on command but she is smart enough to "connect the dots" and automatically sit when she senses a treat might be forthcoming.”
Treat-motivated, needs manners training but “walks OK on a leash.”
And there’s this: “Annie is a friendly pup with a sweet nature.  She likes to receive loving attention.  Annie is housed in a wire crate (far from ideal for a young active pup) lined up with other wire crates in the hallways because the shelter is so overcrowded that we are out of regular kennels.”
Annie’s shelter ID is #51080199 —use it when you contact the shelter at 972-2216-6283 or email [email protected].
Same system for this girl Carly, #51090242, described as “an adorable youngster” who is “a mixed breed (Dog Scanner app suggests Australian Kelpie, Carolina Dog and Siberian Husky in the mix).”

Same story as Annie’s — officer picked her up as a stray — that was on the 11th. Shes about 5 months old and weighs 40 pounds.
Debra writes, “She is a delightfully charming pup who loves to play with balls and toys and will entertain you in the process.  She is a frisky, perky, spunky girl who doesn't jump on you even with her enthusiastic personality.  She knows the sit and paw commands.  She walks well on a leash.  She likes treats and takes them gently.  She is friendly and enjoys receiving loving attention.  Carly has obviously been well-cared for but like so many wonderful dogs we get at the shelter no one comes looking for them.  This is especially mystifying with this girl.”
Carly is is one of the wire crates where Annie is being “stored” while they wait for either a home, a rescue or THE needle.
THIS GUY HAMP
CLEARLY IS AN EARHOUND
Not really Hamp’s fault, but that is a distinct set of ears and the look qualifies him as a genuine Earhound.
We learned from veteran animal advocate Tami Kukla that Hemp’s been under the care of the Saginaw Animal Shelter. She sent a bio and other info on Friday.
The bio says 4- or 5-year-old, 100-pound Hamp “was a cruelty case” that came to the shelter “with a severe skin infection and ear infection, is HW pos and was in overall poor health.”
The shelter launched a “get him back to full strength” campaign. It wasn’t cheap. But, Hamp is in adoptable shape — he’s been neutered.
And, here’s an odd thing: The shelter’s bio reads “He had to have his ear canal removed, so he is completely deaf in one ear. His skin has cleared and he is now growing his fluffy coat back and once he is healed from his surgeries we can begin HW treatment. He is currently available for adoption with a medical contract that you will complete his HW treatment.|
Personality wise, the bio reads, “He cries for attention and hates to be locked on either side of his kennel and has learned how to bust through the dog door to be with his people. He is completely content laying in the front office all day as long as he gets to lay on you feet. He demand you pay the toll as you walk through the office and you have to stop and give him a quick pet. … He would make a GREAT family dog. He likes kids and other dogs and gets the most confused face when the other dogs won’t play with him through the fence.” 
The shelter is at 205 Brenda Lane in Saginaw, ZIP 76179. Call 817-230-0460.
THE NEW SHIRTS ARE HERE!
THE NEW SHIRTS ARE HERE!
I’ve been writing about Friends of the Animals’s fundraising shirts for years. These two may be my favorite.
As you know, proceeds from the sales will help support the wonderful work of Friends of the Animals at Cedar Creek Lake, the non-profit that operates the world’s most successful spay/neuter clinic at Gun Barrel City, Texas. 
Our reliable Friends tipster Sydney Busch reports, “These great shirts are now IN! Each design is available in either color (while they last!). Sizes S-XL are $15. Sizes XXL-XXXL are $17. They are available at the Clinic every Tuesday from 6 a.m. until 4 ish and the Second Saturday of each month from 10-noon at the clinic.”
Follow the Friends and the clinic on Facebook HERE.
.
Or at the Friends website HERE. Call 903-451-4701 or 214-808-4701.
CONTEMPLATIONS
AUTUMN GROUNDHOG, ETC.
We live adjacent to a nature center and as Autumn’s moment of arrival occurred (8:04 p.m. Thursday), we heard the local Groundhog, Cactus Joe, come running out of the security door on his nature center burrow. He was gleefully shouting “HELLO AUTUMN!” Suddenly, Cactus Joe stopped, unzipped his fur coat, took it off, gasped, wiped his groundhog brow, shook his head and muttered “Autumn my perspirations, who are they kiddin’?” He then trotted disconsolately back into his typical suburban burrow and we heard him splash into his underground pool and begin singing along eloquently with Frank Sinatra’s version of Autumn Leaves....
I was reading along on The Rundown, our ol’ TV journalist pal Jeff Crilley’s daily advisory for editors and reporters and PR people for whom news is a mission. He noted that Friday the 23rd is Bruce Springsteen’s 73rd birthday. Once I’d regained consciousness — I thought he was still in his 30s. Like me and my high school classmates -- 
I kept reading The Rundown and came to the “On This Day In History" tip.
I found mention of a Cocker Spaniel. Yes. a historic Cocker Spaniel. On Sept. 23, 1952, Sen. Richard Nixon, in a bit of a political bind, went on national television to deliver what’s known to historians as his “Checkers Speech.” Jeff included this LINK TO THE CHECKERS SPEECH. Vice Presidential candidate Nixon deals with people and politics until about the 17 minute mark and then he delivers the story of Checkers, the Cocker Spaniel from Texas. [LARRY ASIDE: I can’t find a story revealing which city in Texas, but the dog was friendly enough for a Texas dog.]
—- Offer Checkers Info or Advice by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] and put COCKER SPANIELS RULE in the subject line, the spirit of my beloved Cocker-boy Inky suggests.—

BLUE GETS A LIFT FROM A RESCUE; OTHER CRITTERS AWAIT A GOOD BREAK; MONEY AND WORDS

EDITION OF THURSDAY, SEPT 22, 2022 [PetPowellPress] This is a photograph that inspires smiles at readlarrypowell.com. No. We’re not getting another dog, but, thanks to 4-Legged Helpers, this guy Blue is one ride closer to getting a new home.

In this photo, he’s on his ride outta the small-shelter-prone southern side of the Metrosprawl with the loving folks at I Am Dog Rescue. That was a Tuesday morning “Freedom Ride” photo, according to our reliable 4-Legged Helpers pal Laura Macias.
Blue, a year-and-a-half-old Mastiff/Bulldog mix, was surrendered to a small city shelter back in August when his human became critically ill and there was no one left in the family to care for this handsome fellow. 
The non-profit Helpers — this is their North Texas Giving Day link — hustled and hustled to find a place with an opening. 
That first photo is my new favorite picture of Blue — his “leaving town” photo. This second was my favorite until I Am Dog gave him a safe ride. The second photo shows the loving dog celebrating being adored and petted. And that’s the way all dogs oughta be able to live their lives.
For example, take this dog Lady. Somebody take her quickly!
We’ve mentioned Lady before, but she is an example of why there’s never any rest at 4-Legged Helpers. Lady is more than just a dumped dog. She’s the “sweet older girl [who] was seen walking along the road for days. She was just walking and walking and walking. ….She is in pain from just walking but she probably felt she needed to keep moving or die.”
 And, that’s the spot she’s in now. She needs to keep moving on out of the Ferris Animal Shelter or she may, indeed, get the needle. 
Laura writes, “She can barely walk and one rescue gave me a thumbs down and offered to give her some osteo bio flex. What is that going to do for her? She needs out — not meds! Kind of sad. Ferris doesn't stand a chance without help. As the ACO says no one adopts, they only come to dump dogs there.”

To offer to help Lady (and these next two) find that better life we all dream of, call or text the 4-Legged helpers at 214-949-2726 or email [email protected]. We first mentioned Lady a few days ago and also these two siblings, Copper and Luna.
They’re the pups who wandered onto a local schoolyard, played with the kids and when the school bell rang, the kids went to class and the dogs went to the Ferris Shelter. 

NOW, MOVING ALONG
TO DAINGERFIELD….
As you may recall, Daingerfield is a town in East Texas, about 2 1/2 hours east of Dallas on paved roads. (I’m telling you the roads are paved in case you are antsy about driving into the tree-adorned territory of East Texas. 
Now, we’re citing two particular animals of the many waiting in the City of Daingerfield Animal Shelter and we get to do this because veteran animal rescuer/advocate Tami Kukla has virtually adopted the shelter’s animals as a “good cause for good hearts.”

She provided us the story on Remus, that large boy dog listed as a Great Dane Mix. His tale from Tami: “Remus was a shelter transfer that was out of space. He was adopted quickly but then found abandoned. Luckily he was chipped to Daingerfield so they could go get him a few hours away. Big guy who just wants to be near you. Fan of the McDonald's burgers and nuggets.  Super power is his ability to make you feel safe and appreciated.”

Perhaps by now you’ve noticed this wide-eyed kitty cat. That is Violet, a black-and-white beauty. [LARRY NOTE: As people who live with black-and-white cats can testify, these felines are extraordinarily entertaining and curious. Adorable, too — my cat Stevie Ray talked me into typing that verifiable fact.]

So, the deal is Violet wasn’t alone at the shelter. She had kittens. But they’ve all been adopted and now, Tami writes, “It is her turn. Pump up the volume. She loves to have chin scratches. Her purrrr meter is awesome. All she wants is to be a lap kitty — and Temptation treats.”
We also got a note that captured conversation with these two Daingerfield dogs. It’s a little more informal (and endearing) than the usual critter note. But it’s sincere and it highlights two dogs needing homes. It reads, “Hey Kaya. Hey Lyra. Did you know today was National Chai day? …  Not sure exactly what Chai is? Well, Lyra it is this cool drink for humans. And at the place they have Chai tea they have puppichinos.  So what you are saying, Kaya, is if a human would come adopt us we could celebrate with them? Exactly, Lyra. So, humans we are ready...been ready since 2018.. that is a long time...help a pup out. Come Adopt Lyra. Come Adopt Kaya. Daingerfield Animal Shelter.” 

A “human who has met them” writes, “They are both incredible dogs and will love you forever.”
 To ask about any of these Daingerfield adorable adoptables, call the shelter at 903-645-2120 or email [email protected].

REX, THE FOSTER DOG,
IS ABSOLUTELY READY….
This guy Rex is #A1149440 in Dallas Animal Shelter’s records — he’s been in a foster home since July 3, according to a note the aforementioned Tami Kukla sent to us. While some shelters would set a handsome fee for this guy, the City of Dallas will let you adopt him for not one dime. He’s free.

His foster says Rex is a German Shepherd mix who may have some Rottweiler in his family tree. She “tagged him on the day of his deadline and he is continually showing his gratefulness to be out of the shelter. He is extremely human-focused and very affectionate, I mean all of the kisses and hugs a big dog can give! He is 87 lbs of pure love and affection. He is dog selective and needs to be with very friendly, confident dogs. He is great with 2 out of my 3 dogs (1 male and 1 female). He does not care for my other male (who is anxious himself), but he absolutely adores my helper male (who is confident and reads dogs very well). He has a little crush on my female (who is very confident) and like to follow her around! He is extremely quiet, no barking or whining, he is low energy, and he is not picky with food at all. He eats veggies! Not a big chewer so doesn’t really like bones or hard chews. He is starting to gain interest in toys, too! He is housetrained and really loves his crate.”

That very focused assessment leads to the Foster’s list of what “Rex needs in his forever home: 
- a patient owner willing to give him the needed time to decompress….
- ideally multiple humans in the home to give him the love he craves and needs.
- a backyard, as he loves to be outside. 
- a soft bed and definitely a couch, as he has slept on a hard floor for so long. He is still getting used to what a bed is for, but would love to sleep in yours!”

Here is THE OFFICIAL DAS LINK TO ADOPT REX.
[LARRY ASIDE: Bless his heart — just make sure this next new home is the one that lasts forever.]
CONTEMPLATIONS
SHORT NOTES & MONEY?

As my fellow animal nuts have known all-too-well this year, the two hardest things to find in the Metrosprawl are homes for unwanted animals and money to fuel the effort. About the only way to get money around here is to play for the Cowboys or learn how to replace catalytic converters stolen off trucks and cars. …
One of my favorite quotes is from the British writer Samuel Johnson who, at some point in the mid-1700s penned, “No man but a blockhead ever wrote except for money.” As I draw this edition to a close, I am reminded of that quote by the fact that this year may be somewhere around the 20th anniversary of the creation of nobody-gets-paid readlarrypowell.com. I’d have to check the records. But I don’t get paid enough to do research AND write. …
Speaking of “write,” here’s some music for this occasion. CLICK HERE AND ENJOY THE LADS’ VIDEO.
—- Offer plot twists and cold cash (lots of it) by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] and put GRAMMAR MATTERS in the subject line. —-

PEPPER: WILL YOU SAVE THIS DOG? HE'S IN A CROWDED SHELTER AND ADORED

EDITION OF WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 21, 2022 [PetPowellPress] Do I need to remind anyone that Thursday is North Texas Giving Day? Heck, google it and your favorite charity — your donation can save animals’ lives.
BUT FOR THIS EDITION
WE FOCUS ON PEPPER
Money can save animal lives, but so can SPREADING OF THE WORD about this handsome guy PEPPER. My assorted critter sources tell me that hearts are working hard to get this boy Pepper out of the Mesquite Animal Shelter. He’s a special case who has charmed many a volunteer and staffer.
And, as you may know, that shelter has been slammed by dumped and strayed animals for months.
Pepper has witnessed it all — he’s been in the shelter more than 330 days. Even had a near-miss of an adoption experiment. [LARRY ASIDE: This dog must surely have some worn-to-a-frazzle Guardian Angels standing between him and disaster. Help those angels out by adopting him.]
Animal fan Jan Chapman-Green sent readlarrypowell.com a note reading, “Larry, could you give Pepper a thumbs up in some way? Imagine that he has been in the Mesquite Shelter longer than any other dog Ever!! (You know he is adored to have been protected this long!!) Pepper is now in danger of EU. They can only go so far as they euthanize other dogs who have been there less time.” [LARRY ASIDE: That is the pressure brought on by people who don’t care what happens to their animals after they’re out of sight/out-of-tiny minds.]
Pepper is #48873989 — use that ID when you contact the shelter to save his life. He’s said to be nearing a “euthanize” situation because nobody’s wanting him. 
But that wasn’t always the case. He’d arrived as a stray at the shelter on October 14, 2021, and he was, according to his shelter bio, “passed over time and again” because he didn’t show well in the kennel window and he appeared to be “high energy.” But on May 14, 2022, the bio reads, “Our Pepper was adopted! You can imagine the excitement of the staff and volunteers (not to mention Pepper) when he was adopted. 
“Unfortunately, Pepper was brought back 5 days later and surrendered with the stated reason that Pepper is not a pup that is happy and content living in an apartment.” 
[LARRY ASIDE: Well, [EXPLETIVE DELETED], you have to hope that the adoptor made a genuine attempt at making Pepper happy. Adjustments take time with dogs sometimes. Maybe someone with a big heart and yard to go with it can step up for Pepper. Geezalou. This dog doesn’t deserve to die because human fail. None of ‘em do. Cats neither.]
So, Pepper is a Lab mix, about 5 years old and 73-pounds. Click on this Mesquite Shelter LINK
and you can go to Pepper’s biography and information.
Pepper’s biographer on Facebook posted an appeal for him. Catherine Montagno-Ludwick described him as a “shelter favorite” who has “now become urgent” — he’s been in the shelter more than 330 days, she wrote and added “could be euthanized at any day for space.”
 Catherine also wrote, “Pepper has ‘Black Dog Syndrome.’ He is Invisible and No One Stops to SEE This Luv!! Despite all of that, he is still happy and outgoing. AND HE IS ADORED BY ALL THE STAFF. … [Pepper] is dog friendly—loves stuffed animals —and walks amazingly well on a leash!…”
  
Catherine also wrote this for potential adoptors: “Desired Qualifications but not required: 
“Be financially stable so that you can afford to purchase new toys to play with.
“Animals (siblings) or Children would be WONDERFUL
“Having a yard to play in is a must and non negotiable.

“Must be allowed inside with the family and only be put outside to go potty, go for a walk or play with his toys. He loves car rides!!

“Would prefer to sleep in the same bed with his people or his own bed nearby.”
 And there’s this from Catherine, “As a result of his having spent the past 10 months confined to a small kennel, he prefers to not having to use one…. Please!! He needs to be allowed to watch Nickelodeon or the Animal Channel. Adopter MUST have a lot of love in your heart!"
Catherine’s note reads, “If you would like to apply, you must do so in person at: Mesquite Animal Shelter, 1650 Gross Rd, Mesquite, TX 75159. Between the hours of 1pm - 5:30pm. No appointment needed. Rescues please tag via email to [email protected]."

And Catherine wrote, “Please don’t let all the time that Pepper has lost be for nothing. PLEASE, THE ENTIRE STAFF IS BEGGING.”

CONTEMPLATIONS
‘NORMAL?’ & OTHER NOTES
I’m a sap — yes, I can’t get Pepper off my mind. Surely someone will adopt that handsome boy…Geez, what a fix!...
In the meantime, did you realize that Big Tex will celebrate his 70th birthday at the State Fair of Texas on October 4 — the fair opens on Friday the 30th. Already — yes, already it’s State Fair time. All the info — exhibits, contests, prices, games, etc., is at bigtex.com. You can even click on merchandise and find this “handcrafted glass ornament from the studios of Kitty Keller.” These are, the Fair says, “one of a kind ornaments …available in limited quantities.” And, according to the Fair, “No two ornaments are exactly alike!” $35 each if I read the Big Tex collectibles page right— I knew you’d ask, Fairfans....
THIS IS THE NORMAL NOTE: I got an email Tuesday from Dallas County Health and Human Services with the headline “West Nile Watch Update — Sept. 20, 2022” and and my covid-free mind immediately thought, “Ah, the good ol’ days.” Felt almost normal to read about plain ol’ bugs in swimming pools. Coppell (2), Irving (1) and the Richardson note read “75080 (1 pool), 75081 (1 pool) for a total of “5 new pools.” No flu reports in the email — yet. Too early? Or is it year-round now?…
All those new foods at the Fair?  Hallelujah! OK, I sensed -- miles away from Fair Park -- that there would be some things that would draw me in like a fat man on a sugar-binge. Fortunately, I’m beyond that, thanks to a team of doctors who encourage me to keep my mouth shut in tempting times. 
But, I swear on a stack of extra-syruped-and-buttered pancakes, if I were to suddenly lose my resolve and throw myself madly into one-man sugarfest, I’d be hard-pressed to not yell “I’ll take ONE OF EACH of the Cookies & Cream Mini-Donuts on a Stick and the Chocolate-Dipped Cheesecake on a Stick. Nope, let the skinny people enjoy those treats. I’m still looking for the perfect calorie-free, exercise-inducing dinner salad for vegetarians. Ah, give me a sparkling water and a head of lettuce any day of the week. Won’t even affect my mood. I swear on a stack of veggie cheeseburgers with extra fries.
—- Offer diet advice or condiment ideas by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] and put SOMEBODY SAVE PEPPER in the subject line. ——