ReadLarryPowell.com

SPRINGTIME LITTER? A LOAD OF STRAYS; A DOG THAT MAY BE INNOCENT; AND A LOUNGING CAT WAITS...

EDITION OF THURSDAY, DEC. 1, 2022 [PetPowellPress] Before we dive into the opportunities to help animals, let’s just check on things you might celebrate this month. Online calendar Holiday Insights says this is Bingo Month and National Fruitcake Month. And that the first week of the month is National Handwashing Awareness Week — I don’t know if that a sanitation thing or a political thing, i.e. “I’m washing my hands of this entire situation!” OK, let’s see what we’ve got today.
A DOZEN PUPPIES & MOM ADD
TO SHELTER’S POPULATION
Geezalou, I hope this challenge has been defeated by the time you are reading this. The family was from Hutchins, but Hutchins now takes its animals to the Ferris Animal Shelter nearby.
 The news about this really tough situation came from 4-Legged Helpers. In summation, the Helpers’ description reads: “SUPER SWEET MOMMY AUSTRALIAN SHEPHERD NOELLE AND HER 12 BABIES URGENTLY  NEED SOMEONE TO SAVE THEM.”
It was labeled an “EMERGENCY!” and having been around unexpected litters, I can tell you a dozen puppies is a brain-battering surprise.
[LARRY AUSSIE ASIDE: Normally you’d think that spring is puppy season, right? Well, this is an Australian Shepherd and, as you know, when it’s autumn in Texas, it’s spring in Australia. There. I think I’ve used by elementary school geography to sort out that puppies in spring situation. What? Yeah, I might have missed a few classes at some point. Back to saving Noelle and her puppies!]

The bio reads, “Mommy Noelle is extremely sweet and super friendly and completely fine with her babies being held by someone.  She is also dog friendly.  
“Puppies appear to be about a week old and were found in a box with mom. Daddy is a Great Pyrenees. Daddy Pyrenees was initially with them but took off and has not yet been found.  This was in Hutchins.”

To offer to help any or all of these dogs, email the 4-Legged Helpers at cat_girl_71@yahoo.com or call or text 214-949-2726.You can see all of the puppies on the Helpers’ Facebook page HERE.
CAN ANYONE DECLARE
A ‘NO MORE STRAYS DAY’?
[LARRY APOLOGY: That headline was an outburst from a guy who’s weary of the word “stray” being associated with the Metrosprawl. People -- take care of your animals!  Strays are great dogs and cats. But, geezalou, give 'em a danged good home, people!]

This Earhound is Dylan, a German Sheperd who came into the Mesquite Animal Shelter on Nov. 19 as a — of course! — “STRAY!”
His biographer Debra Chisholm writes that the 5-month-old, not-yet-neutered pup is “a too-thin 25 pounds.”
This no surprise to anyone who’s been following the Mesquite Shelter’s efforts to find homes for dogs and cats. Debra’s appeal for Dylan reads, “Our shelter has been badly overcrowded for months and the situation is not improving.  Dylan is being housed in a crate and seems stressed in the crate but when I brought him into the room in which I took his pictures, he was much more relaxed.
She also writes, “This delightful youngster is a fun-loving, happy-go-lucky, spunky boy.  He has a confident and outgoing personality, is high energy, playful (likes to play with toys and balls) and is just a very sweet puppy.  He walks well on a leash.  He is a very curious youngster and pretty much explored every square inch of the room in which I did his eval.  He is friendly and was happy to let me pet and love on him.  He would be a wonderful family pet that should be inside with his people rather than being a guard or watchdog in the backyard.”
You know the drill, Dear Readers: Interested in rescuing or adopting this guy, use his ID #51564981 when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 
OK, so here’s another stray — Alfie — and you can use the same system to ask about him. He’s #51553060.
 Debra says the 3-year-old, 50-pound, not-neutered “American Staffordshire boy” came in on Nov 17 as a stray. And she says, “This is one tail-wagging, supercharged fellow who is a life-of-the-party kind of guy. … He is on-the-go, with places to go, people to see and things to do.  He is very playful and enjoys playing with toys.  He loves treats and takes them gently.  He sits, but not on command.  He has an outgoing personality and there is nothing shy or fearful about him. …  This lively boy is more than ready to leave the shelter and to get settled into his forever home.”

Yep, this beautiful guy Cooper [#51560616] is, indeed, another stray — came in on Nov. 18. He’s about a year old, not-neutered and weighs 56 pounds. Debra says, “Cooper walks beautifully on a leash and did not react to the dogs when he was being led past kennels that barked at him.  He knows the sit command, is well-mannered and calm.  Truly a gentle soul.  Cooper has a low-key and chill personality.  He likes treats and takes them gently so should be easy to teach some commands using treats as a motivation.  He is friendly, affectionate and thoroughly happy receiving loving attention. … He does currently have a URI and is being treated for that.”
STOP THE PRESSES! JAX IS NOT A STRAY!!! But, geezalou, people, where are your hearts? 
The bio from Debra gives us a look at this dog’s life. She writes that “handsome” Jax is a Lab mix who “arrived at…the shelter on Nov. 16. He was reported to have bitten someone, but, then, there was conflicting information indicating that this was not the dog who bit the accuser.  The shelter was obligated to place him in bite quarantine because of the accusation, but there is some strong doubt that Jax was the culprit.  He is about a year old, weighs 44 pounds, and is not neutered.  He has a low-key personality, is calm and gentle.  He loves treats and takes them gently.  Jax was not interested in balls or toys.  He does not seem to know any commands.  He is a friendly and sweet boy.  Jax was happy to receiving loving attention from me and he really tugged at my heart strings.  He has a moderate activity level.” 
Remember, use Jax’s ID #51529203 when you call the shelter at   972-216-6283 or email at rescues@cityofmesquite.com."

Debra added, “Many days we have more animals arriving at the shelter rather than leaving and it has made for a desperately overcrowded situation.  We need adoptions and rescues for our many wonderful dogs (and cats!) who would make terrific pets.”
Want to see some of them? Click on this LINK to MESQUITE’S ANIMALS IN THE SHELTER. One of ‘em is this nameless cat (he’s #51537622) And he’s grown up — a 3-year-old cat who, somehow, found his neutered way into the Mesquite Animal Shelter where he waits in the Cat Room. He arrived on Nov. 16 and the handsome orange fellow clearly know how to lounge. He definitely has the ability to take up a spot on your couch when you’re watching the World Cup or that other kind of futbol with the pointy ball.
CONTEMPLATIONS
WORLD CUP AND OTHER THINGS
It would be pretty cool, wouldn’t it, to see the United States win the World Cup. Of course, if that happened, immediately there would be investigations and players would have to urinate in cups until they had nothing left to test. …
The cold snap sure was a bit different from the summer in Texas, wasn’t it. I still don’t miss the Summer of '22 — have to get a lot colder, but maybe it won’t.
Is it possible that we can blame the Hawaiian volcano eruptions on either the climate change or ERCOT? Yes, I take climate change seriously — I’m not designed to wear shorts and t-shirts.
—- Offer advice or doubt by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put ALWAYS WEAR CONCEALING ATTIRE, PLEASE! in the subject line. —-

A CAT TALE; AN AVAILABLE DOG, CONTEMPLATIONS INCLUDING A SOCCER CONFESSION

EDITION OF WEDNESDAY, NOV. 30, 2022 [PetPowellPress] Don’t event try to think about what you failed to accomplish in November. Like finishing your shopping before Santa Claus arrived in the finale of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Oh, and helping all shelters and rescue groups find home for the animals on their lists of adorable adoptables.
 So, take a deep breath. Contemplate your December plans, i.e., exercise, eat healthy, promote animal adoption and spay/neuter and buy cheap gasoline. Together, all of that will boost your spirits. That’s my funspouse Martha’s personally-rescued dog Wendy (Wednesday Louise Wagstaff Arden) modeling for a poster that’ll have the message “Lend an ear: Save ‘em all.” Just needs an agent. The right ear is usually down.
AND HERE’S A CAT TALE
THAT’S ALL TOO COMMON
Yeah, this is a common situation for cats all over the metrosprawl. In this case, on Tuesday I spotted this day- old note on a neighborhood bulletin board. It was written by a woman named Susan who lives in Eastern Fort Worth.
Susan (clearly a neighborhood animal hero) wrote, “This cat has been coming around and eating the food I put out for a couple of ferals. He let me pet him today, and even wanted to come in the house. This tells me he was somebody's pet. If no one claims him, I'm going to grab him and get him to the vet and find him a home.”
 Follow up notes revealed that is exactly what is happening. And, you have to wonder if this cat is one of those “beloved family pets” who is put out at night and has always show back up in the morning — until now. Lucky a coyote or a hawk didn't take him in.
NOW, WE TAKE A MUSICAL LOOK
AT A DOG NAMED BARBAS
This bio of a quite-handsome dog came to us via a trusted tipster who monitors a certain Northeast Texas shelter.
Barbas is waiting for a home while in the care of the Daingerfield Animal Shelter. [LARRY ASIDE: We’ve mentioned it before because reader Tami Kukla has adopted it as a personal project for getting dogs and cats adopted or rescued from the crowded small town shelter.]
When you looked at that photo of Barbas, did you think “That dog loves music!”?
Well, here’s the musical bio: 
“Barbas says he just hasn't met you yet but is ready to. This distinguished young gentleman is just a treat to be around. He is a fan of a range of music from Garth Brooks to Michael Buble to the Beach Boys. Are you a connoisseur of snack food? Well, he would like to join you in enjoying a treat. He would love to learn to play Frisbee and to paddle-board. Easy on a leash. And if your adventures include daily runs he is game.”
 The final bio graph about Barbas reads, “Active. Goofy. Sweet. And stunning. And in case you needed more reasons to adopt him, all of that is a little something to think about.”

Contact the shelter at 903-645-2120 or email animalshelter@cityofdaingerfield.com. You can also go to this Facebook site and direct-message a note about Barbas.
CONTEMPLATIONS
OLD BONES, SOCCER AND THE KING...
I saw a story earlier in the week that declared, “The dinosaur bone market is booming” and, as a genuine Baby Boomer, I began to feel paranoia creeping through my aged skeletal system. Yeah, I might ahve been called a dinosaur a time or two...
LARRY FYI CONFESSION: Congratulates to the USA team at the World Cup. Beat Iran 1-0. I coached the first complete soccer game I ever saw. OK, I assistant-coached that match. A special hello to you aging Grand Prairie Youth Soccer Mavericks who suited up back in the mid-70s when you were in pre-school, first and second grade. Dr. Cary Askins, the head coach, had played the game. He also knew enough about kid soccer to know that he needed a dad or mom or two (sometimes more) to be in charge of “crowd control,” i.e., keep the players’ attention on the game at practice and at the matches. We played on a field in Grand Prairie beneath the flight path of choppers from the then-busy Navy Dallas Airfield near Mountain Creek Lake. If a helicopter was overhead, the ball would roll (seen only by coaches, parents and refs) off the field into the street. Just about every player would be looking up! My little boys, Bret and Bart, played for the Mavericks. Fans of the Maverick TV show will smile at that coincidence. We won the league that first year. If memory serves. It is, looking back, exactly what it’s called: “The Beautiful Game.” …
In honor of autumn, here’s the great voice and musical presence of a wonderful performer, Nat King Cole.
—- Offer autumn advice by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put GRAB THE RAKE, LAZY in the subject line. —-

SAVE 'EM ALL, BUT BE CAREFUL IF YOU 'GIFT' 'EM; WE CITE SOME AVAILABLES, PORCHE'S SMILE AND CONTEMPLATIONS

EDITION OF TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2022 [PetPowellPress] OK, here we are beyond Thanksgiving. Shelters and rescue groups are loaded with animals that need homes. 
And out there in the world there are people who are thinking about giving someone a dog or cat or one or more of each to a relative for Christmas.
Our message to the gift-givers: Think about it before you do it. I got this dog Porch (photographed in her one of her office spots Monday morning) for Christmas one year -- by the way,  I'll explain how after the sermon.
Here’s a good animal gift rule: NEVER SURPRISE ANYBODY WITH A PUPPY OR KITTEN AND NEVER SURPRISE A PUPPY OR KITTEN WITH JUST ANYBODY. [LARRY ASIDE: I may copyright that sentence for my book We’re Spaying and Neutering the Wrong Mammals.]

You've got to be careful with giving living beings as a gift. Why? Because for Christmas you might be giving that puppy or kitten a death sentence. How’s that for a cheery opening to today’s report? If you're giving an animal to someone, make sure they (a) want one and (b) they have a rock-solid heartfelt reputation for loving animals.
I suspect that most people who are reading this have experience in this sort of thing.
 If you’re new to rescue or gift-giving and you want confirmation there are "dump the animal" risks, just check with someone who’s worked at a shelter in January and February. They'll tell you about "new surrenders” who used to be Christmas gifts.
 OK, that’s the end of today’s sermon. And we’ll close it with this: “Amen. Spay and neuter.”
Now, moving along — and, yes, that’s Porche Noel, found rasping from too tight a collar, starving, walking with a limp she still has and fearful on our front porch at Christmas 12 years ago. She has no feeling on her right back paw and sometimes it betrays her on hardwood floors and concrete. Still, as you can see, she sleeps with a smile on her facee. She’s my constant companion and she can feel a hug and a cuddle and hear the cats’ treat box being opened. She’s a great inadvertent Christmastime gift. But she had the good fortune of showing up on the porch at Christmas at a home that adores and respects dogs and cats. We even have grown kids and "all-growed-up" grandkids. We love the kids and grandkids, but they'll tell you that our dogs and cats are treasured. (Oh, OK, so are the kids and grandkids.)
SMALL SHELTERS HOLDING
ANIMALS CAN LOVE — HONEST!
The people at 4-Legged Helpers keep promoting the shelters that have animals but don’t have a “promotional budget.” Yep, it’s all free publicity — we’re theorizing that nobody on a small-town city council wants to spend money promoting the adoption of animals nobody cares about. 
Ahhh, but there are people who care about the animals. Consider these dogs who are getting the attention of 4-Legged Helpers.
Oh, and this is the opening paragraph in the most recent posting on the 4-Legged Helpers Inc. Facebook site: 
“ THE FERRIS SHELTER IS FULL & CODE RED These wonderful dogs need a place to go! Fosters, Adopters or Rescue Support needed immediately!”
We got a note from the Helpers with these dogs on the list of small-shelter available adorables.
That’s Sophie, a Siberian Husky in the Ferris Animal Shelter. Her bio reads that the “about-a-year-old” dog “LOVES LOVES LOVES all people and all other dogs. Was found out and about with a German Shepherd that had a microchip that was never registered. Super sweet and extremely lovable.”
This Pointer mix Austin was originally at the Glenn Heights Animal Shelter and is awaiting adoption or rescue via 4-Legged Helpers. He’s young, neutered and “just as precious as can be,” his bio reads. “He loves all other dogs and does great with all of them, including small dogs. He is only about a year old at most and is playful and cutes as can be. Would make a wonderful family dog.”
Amber, in Ferris, is a “Lab/Bulldog mix” who is the “sweetest girl ever,” her bio reads. “Just a complete huggable love bunny….You honestly could not meet a nicer, sweeter girl with what are the prettiest big chocolate eyes.” 

We’ve mentioned these before — that fellow with the great ears and great tail is young Leo, a Carolina Dog. He was a stray in Hutchins. And Aiden, the Husky Lab mix (with a $150 pledge to a 501c3 rescue who takes him, was a stray in Hutchins. He’s microchipped. No contact with a human on the other end of the chip, yet.
As about any of these dogs by calling or texting 4-Legged Helpers at 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com. They’re all urgent this time of year. Or the last time of year. Or the next time of year — that’s how it goes around here.
And here’s the LINK TO THE 4-LEGGED HELPERS’ Facebook page  so you can keep up with the small shelter challenges. Maybe help dogs and cats beat the rap as being “unwanted.”
MEANWHILE IN MESQUITE,
AGGIE’S ON THE REBOUND
& FIRST TIMERS ABOUND
Just as the small shelters on the southern side of Big D continue to acquire animals in need of homes, so does the larger Mesquite Animal Shelter on the eastern edge of Dallas.
And the Mesquite shelter has an organized group of volunteers who work hard with the dedicated shelter workers to find homes for animals who, through no fault of their own, wind up on the countdown clock. 
We got the info on these from volunteer dog bio-writer Debra Chisholm.
First up is Aggie, a “mixed breed girl with Malinois/German Shepherd in the mix that was a returned adoption to the Mesquite Animal Shelter.  Aggie originally arrived at the shelter as a stray on 7/7/22 and spent long months waiting for an adoption.  We all were thrilled that on 11/19 someone finally saw what a great dog she is and she was adopted.  You can imagine our disappointment when she was returned on 11/22.  Apparently the adopters did not check with the apartment complex staff because they were informed that Aggie was not an ‘approved breed.’  So Aggie is now back to square one and once again awaiting her person or family who will provide her the forever home she so richly deserves.|
Aggie is about 2 1/2, weighs 41 pounds, is spayed. And she’s a “trusting and friendly girl.” Debra also writes, “You can sense that she is stressed at being back at the shelter and housed in a crate like she has been through much of her shelter stay.  Our shelter has been critically overcrowded for months with no end in sight.  There are simply too many dogs and too few regular kennels to house all of them.“
Aggie is #50613182. That’s her ID to use when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com. Use that same system when you ask about any of these Mesquite animals.
Demi (#51564287), about 2 and weighing 40 un-spayed pounds, came in as a stray on the 19th. Debra writes, “This is one lively, high energy girl with lots of personality.  Demi is confident and has an outgoing nature with not a bit of nervousness or fear.  She is playful and enjoyed playing with toys.  She does not seem to know any commands.  She was quite interested in exploring the room and really seemed to love getting a break from her crate.  She likes treats.  Demi is amiable and was happy to receive attention from me.  She pranced and danced around the room and it was fun to watch her stretch her legs and enjoy getting some personal attention.”

 Lacie (#51509493) is this 25-pound, 10-month-old stray who arrived on the 19th. Debra says, “They don't come any cuter or sweeter than Lacie … My dog scanner app suggests she is a mixed breed with Boxer and Black Mouth Cur in the mix.”
She “has a confident, tail-wagging, fun-loving personality” and “high puppy energy!” She “is not timid, fearful or nervous.” 
The friendly, sweet-natured toy-loving dog is also “happy to receive loving attention from a human friend.  She loves treats and would no doubt be easy to train because of this.  Lacie walks quite nicely on a leash.  This frisky, spunky girl needs out of our overcrowded shelter and we would be so grateful for any assistance. ”
Readlarrypowell.com frequently give you, Dear Readers, this LINK to the animals in the Mesquite shelter. (CLICK HERE.)
Usually we focus on a cat, such as this guy Mike (#51109635). He’s 2 years and 2 months old among a load of kittens in the shelter. Big silver/white Domestic shorthair mix who came in on September 13 — he’s waiting in the shelter’s Conference Room. Handsome fellow. 
As you consider clicking on that link to look at cats, you can also look at more dogs. You can see the siblings JoJo (5153760), Abbie (#51537601) and Jet (51537580). The came in with their mom, Momma Mia on November 15 and Debra sent out the note about them with the label “:CUTE PUPPY ALERT.” You have THE LINK HERE. 
CONTEMPLATIONS

NO PARTICULAR DIRECTION
Remember how we lamented the rainless days in the summer? My front yard, right now, looks like I hired a professional to revive it. But the swamp tree, a bald cypress planted by the previous owner, thrived with my watering in the summer but now looks as if its about to lose every leaf I struggled to save. Oh, wait, maybe that’s where “bald” comes from. I shouldn’t be allowed to have trees. …
Our washing machine, said to be a reliable brand, stopped working in the spin cycle on Thanksgiving Day. Do you pay to repair and risk failure or do you buy a new washing machine and risk bankruptcy. At least I’m not spending any money on a vacation trip to some place I can’t afford. …
I got my covid booster the Friday before Thanksgiving and spent two days nearly inert. But only two days and I guess that’s the good side of that experience. I’d have watched movies or read if my attention span could have been revived. And, yes, my left arm was sore — and Martha said it matched my personality. She’s the only person who ever diagnoses me as having “Chronic Sorehead Syndrome.”
—- Offer boost-your-spirits advice or get-rich-quick schemes by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put THE CAT LIKES YOU, MAYBE in the subject line. —-

 

LEAVES, HELPING ANIMALS, CONTEMPLATING THE SWIFT NOVEMBER 2022

EDITION OF MONDAY, NOV 28, 2022 [PetPowellPress] You see this photo, of course. Yes, that is my dog Porche Noel disguised as a pile of autumn leaves. I'm kidding. Porche doesn't do leaves. She is the reason FOR the pile of leaves, my first raked-into-a-pile of autumn.
 You may recall the recent rainstorms. They blew a boatload of leaves (poetic, ain't it!) up against the bottom step on our 3-step exit into the backyard. And Porche Noel, no matter how desperate she was to "go," would get her front legs down to the bottom step while her back legs froze on the top step and she was too scared to step onto the damp leaves. In dry weather, she'd jump into them like a kid with a patient father holding a rake in his hands.
So, I raked the leaves and she's back to her normal step routine. That is her giving me the "Porche Noel Stinkeye" look for petting her Sunday morning, but not "treating" her. I made up for it later. Extra treats.
Now, firmly autumnized, we move on to Northeast Texas, Western Oklahoma and the Metrosprawl. These aren’t the only animals in need, but they’re on the local radar as the Thanksgiving weekend draws to a calorie-filled close and preps for a lay-of-the-sweets existence.
RESCUE ONLY KIRO
HAS A DEC.. 1 DEADLINE
The tip that came to readlarrypowell.com from Daingerfield, in Northeast Texas, pointed out right away that this guy Kiro is on a clock in a shelter that’s full for the season.

Kiro’s bio describes him as a year-old Boxer/Pittie mix “with the most adorable ears.” And it says he’s spent his life living “on the streets” until he was placed in the Daingerfield Animal Shelter in August.
 Since then the dog has had “safety and stability,” the bio reads, but he hasn’t run into anyone who’d want to adopt “an energetic boy.” Based on his early life, he’s suffering from trying “to adjust from running the streets and surviving to being in a kennel next to dogs.” 
The theory is a rescue familiar with the needs of ex-street dogs might be able to help Kiro adjust to being an “only dog” or “separate from other dogs” until he’s acclimated to the concept of living friendly with others.
To offer to help Kiro become that rescued and adored companion, contact the Daingerfield Animal Shelter at 903-645-2120 or email animalshelter@cityof daingerfield.com. 

And, just in case you know a rescue or a heart/home with room for some puppies, we got a note from the advocate/rescuer Tami Kukla about the puppies Sage, Saffron, Maverick and Rooster. 
The description reads, “Sage and Saffron are Lab mixes that came in October 17th and were aged at 8 weeks so they are 13 weeks now.  Super fun-loving little pumpkins. Both girls.” [LARRY ASIDE: Sage and Saffron may weigh around 13 pounds each — but, as many of us know, it is customary to add some weight during the Thanksgiving holiday feasting season…yeah I felt a little hypocritical writing that!]
That brings us to Maverick and Rooster who, their bio says, “are about 5.5 months old. About 24 pounds. Both boys. Came into the shelter Sept 6 at 10 weeks. Hound mixes.”
Again,  to ask about these pups, contact the shelter at 903-645-2120 or email animalshelter@cityofdaingerfield.com. Or contact Tami, who has adopted the shelter as a personal project, at 214-641-8247.
If you need something kind of cute to boost your return to your “normal existence,” Tami included links to videos of these the puppies. Click HERE FOR SAGE/SAFRON and click HERE for ROOSTER/MAVERICK.
MEANWHILE, THE DOG
WAITING IN BURNS FLAT
We got a note Sunday from our longtime contact Terry Lynn Fisher way out in the westernmost Oklahoma town of Burns Flat. [LARRY ASIDE: This situation demonstrates how “timing is the key to everything.” And that photo is the dog with the bad timing.]
Terry Lynn wrote, “I received a phone call this morning from a girl who lives in the next town. While taking the trash out she saw this little dog dragging its hind end and going to the dumpster searching for food. She said it’s a little bit larger than a Dachshund.
 It has no use of its back legs and is very very skinny. We do not have an emergency vet right now so I have to wait till in the morning and I will be taking it down to my vet.

“At this time, I have no clue what’s going on. But I know we need help and a place for this dog to go.
“I will be out of commission for a couple of weeks after tomorrow so I really cannot take this went on and bring home so if anyone can accept this baby and rescue or foster let me know and we’ll figure out a way to get it there. If you can help with vetting on this poor baby please let me know.”
 The good timing is that this dog managed to get the attention of “The Angel of Burns Flat.” The bad timing is that it happened on a holiday weekend and there are other time constraints. But people work around these challenges all the time.
To ask about helping this dog, email Terry Lynn at remembering-oddball@yahoo.com. To help with the dog’s vet expenses, contact Southwest Veterinary Clinic in nearby Hobart, Okla., at 580-726-3385 and ask ‘em about Terry Lynn’s latest dog, the one with the back-leg problem. [LARRY ASIDE: Yes, they know she’s the Angel of Burns Flat and helps animals all over the region.]
THIS GUY JACKI NEEDS
OUT OF A TIGHT SPOT!
We got the tip on this handsome dog Jacki from our pal, the animal advocate/rescuer Kimberly Jones. 
We picked these photos to show him off indoors and outdoors and in winter and summer. That is a good dog, right?
 Yes.
Here’s the background on 3-year-old Jacki from the folks trying to help him. It reads that he is “mainly black and has some white spots on the chest area. He is very friendly, smart and obedient. He knows and understands many words. Basic: Come, sit, lay down, stay, no, and more. He stays inside the house with us but he also enjoys outside. Jacki is house-trained, potty-trained and crate-trained. He loves to go for a walk. He is not very well-trained with the leash yet but he does fine for walking short distance from home. He is good with other dogs and has never bitten anyone. We can give you crate, bed, food, and treats that he currently has. His shots are up to date. He also has heart worm prevention medicine right now. He is microchipped and I can provide you all the information."

Here’s the WHY this dog is available: The “owner’s niece is moving in with the family and allergic to animals. RESCUE OR ADOPTER DESPERATELY NEEDED ASAP. Email Jacki’s current human at luluaungmail@yahoo.com.
CONTEMPLATIONS
THE DAY AND OTHER STUFF
I was stunned that the November calendar has been so swiftly advancing us through the year. So, I looked up November 28 on the Holiday Insights online calendar to see what else the 28th might be besides a Monday. For people who still have shopping energy after the elongated Black Friday pressure, this is Cyber Monday — shopping online, though, of course, Black Friday has evolved to embrace on-line shopping, too. This also is French Toast Day. [LARRY CONFESSION: After all the hot rolls, potatoes and sweets I ate on Thursday, there’s no room for toasted bread on my calorie countin’ calendar. Oh, and FYI: Melba Toast Day is March 23, Holiday Insights says. And that's my personal cat Stevie Ray sleeping off some holiday grub and reminding you: "Dress up your furniture, adopt a cat. Cats are available all over the State of Texas, the State of Oklahoma and anywhere else there's a lack of understanding how spay/neuter works.] Back to the calendar:]
A bizarre Holiday Insights note says this also is “Make Your Own Head Day” and lays the blame for that at the feet of an unknown theatrical designer who made fake heads. [LARRY ASIDE: Can’t you see an actor walking on stage, holding up a fake head and asking, “Allright, in that last scene who lost your head?”]
Finally, November 28 is also Red Planet Day, Holiday Insights reports, “Red Planet Day commemorates the launch of the Spacecraft Mariner 4 on November 28, 1964. Mariner 4 was the first spacecraft to visit Mars. The 228-day mission of Mariner 4 brought the spacecraft within 6,118 miles of Mars on July 14, 1965.” [LARRY ASIDE: Not all of us buy into describing Mariner 4 as the “first spacecraft to visit Mars.” You may have known neighbors, classmates or relatives who should be called to testify before the Senate Committee on Space Travel. If elected to the U.S. Senate, I have a list of beings I’ll call to the testify.] And, in case you wondered, Elon Musk, who has exhibited quite an interest in space travel, was born June 28, 1971.  On Earth. No Mars trip on his record — yet. That we know of…
— Offer tips on space travel or dieting by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put YOU’LL WEIGH LESS ON MARS in the subject line, That oughta inspire commercial space travel. —

OUR DOG DUDLEY'S ABILITY TO SLEEP; A TRIBUTE TO PIES -- AT THE STATE FAIR AND AT HOME -- THANKFULNESS

Before we move along to the adorable topic of this edition of Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap, one more note about Thanksgiving — an annual holiday that ought to be a daily practice.
 We've got a Contemplation you may want a slice of — just FYI, I had pumpkin pie and apple pie desserts at Thanksgiving. Anybody know a priest who focuses on caloric forgiveness? Now, we return to the topic of this particular day.
Our featured critter for this weekend’s Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap is our own big ol’ dawg, the Border Collie/Lab mix, Dudley.
That mood shot (left) is what happens when you tell a very savvy dog, “Hey, Dudley, give me an impression of a male human who’s just finished off a big Thanksgiving dinner and can’t fight off a nap.”

And there he is. Dudley told me, “I figure this is about as far as an overfed human male can get after taking on a load of traditional dishes, hot rolls and homemade desserts. On just two legs he probably can’t stand up at the table without falling over and going into a full-on napflop." 
Dudley is so aware of human nature.
Dudley the Angel, a wander-up/probably dumped dog who arrived at our house in Oak Cliff almost a decade ago, quickly was named in honor of the character portrayed by Cary Grant in The Bishop’s Wife (1947) and Denzel Washington in The Preacher’s Wife (1996). He is such a good dog, this sweet boy Dudley the Angel. And, yes, taking a nap after a meal is not beyond his imagination. 
Martha took the better photos of Dudley. I took the “artistic pictures.” 
FYI: Dudley is proof that a dog nobody wanted can become a member of the family and a guiding influence on manners, attitudes and appreciations of the slightest hint of civilization in the kitchen. I hug him all the time. He puts up with it.
[LARRY EXPLANATORY ASIDE: Yes, that IS our slim dog Wendy, white with tan spots and a wagging tail. I snapped this photo on morning last week. I was walking past Martha's bathroom door and Wendy had been snoozing on a rug and, yes, that is Dudley sitting there. He is sleeping while sitting. Sometimes he does that. Just sits down and, if nobody offers him a treat or a petting session, he nods off while sitting. Yes, I absolutely envy him. He can sleep prone or sitting --it occurs to me he might have been dumped a decade ago by a cranky and envious insomniac. I'm kidding. We insomniacs are generally too kind to dump an animal over a little shut-eye. That would keep us up nights.]
CONTEMPLATION
REGARDING PIES

Yes, as the crowning achievement of my vegetarian Thanksgiving I finished off the meal with a slice of pumpkin pie and a slice of apple pie. Then I fell asleep on the floor next to my chair. I’m kidding Dudley. He knows better. OK, I’ll confess: I might have had two slices of each — I lost track…Martha had a bit of each pie too. And, as we took delicate bites of the treats we found ourselves contemplating our previous quite exciting encounter with the food group "Pie."
 It was, gloriously, in mid-October when we helped judge the great State Fair of Texas’ Creative Arts Pie-Baking Contest. I am convinced that it is unlikely that I will ever again taste pies the quality of those baked by the great cooks at the State Fair. Yes, I am thankful for the State Fair pies. I’m generally thankful for any pie. (That photo shows some of the SCORES of pies in the competition at the 2022 Fair!)
But, heaven-on-a-fork, those State Fair pies were a privilege and I’m betting some — if not all — of the contestants served their State Fair competition pies to family gatherings on Thanksgiving Day. Our dog Dudley likes pie. OK, we haven’t really been able to determine what he doesn’t like — except for lettuce.
[DEAR READERS: Let us celebrate your sleeping dogs, napping cats and other snoozing individuals, i.e., the brother-in-law who came for Thanksgiving and is planning to stay until after the Super Bowl. Send photos and bios of your critters to dallrp@aol.com and we’ll post ‘em in our long-running feature Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. [That's an "AWAKE!" photo I took of Dudley -- he puts up with my typing.] Remember, by helping us feature your critter, you’ll be reminding people to make room in their homes and their lives for a lovable friend who becomes a definite member of the family. And you’ll be encouraging insomniacs to believe, they, too can sleep -- if they can take in the right number of calories to activate the doze-off gene and if they can assemble the proper amount of padding around their chairs when they do the napflop.  That can happen during some relative’s long pre-meal speech about politics while the first-course soup gets cold and your family is not the kind who'd have somone say, “Hey, Granny, can you whip us up some of that chilly Vichyssoise.” Oui, Slim.]
— Offer diet tips ’n’ recipes by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and make the subject line read “DROP THE FORK, SLIM, AND NOBODY GETS HURT.” —

AS WE MOVE TOWARD THANKSGIVING DAY IN THE ANIMAL WORLD...'GIT UH PLATE!'

PM EDITION OF WEDNESDAY, NOV. 23, 2022 [PetPowellPress] Here we go with some dog and cat tales that may lead people to a critter mission, i.e., something to do after they’ve recovered from over-indulging on Thanksgiving. Not that any of us would over-indulge. Right, Porche? Sorry, she's napping. That’s the formerly starving stray Porche Noel demonstrating that she can enjoy an after-meal nap. Or a before-meal nap. Her slumberstyle works for any situation. Read on and help some animals and if your house is already at the limit, preach the gospel of animal rescue and adoption to friends with big hearts and room for one more. Two more, maybe. That’s Martha’s rescue Wendy — constantly fed, always thin for some reason. Healthy and sweet — I think she’s a Boxer/Bird Dog mix. Traces her family tree back to the Mayflower. We’re not real sure about that but she will answer to the name “Myles Standish” if there’s food involved. If food's involved, she'll answer to anything.
MEANWHILE IN CARROLLTON,
A NUMBER OF DOGS WAITING
I checked with Vanessa Johnson, the Senior Animal Care Specialist at the Carrollton Animal Shelter, about several dogs who’d shown up in emails in our inbox. The answer was pretty simple: “They have not been tagged, adopted or rescued.”
And just in case you have room in your home, your rescue group, your heart or you’re building a new room onto your house, the contact point is vanessa.johnson@cityofcarrollton.com. Also, you can call 972-466-3420. Keep in mind the shelter will be closed Thanksgiving Day and on Friday.
See those three babies in that top photo? Here’s the story from Vanessa’s note: “We have these 3 little ones. They are too young to be in the shelter. We are looking for a rescue group to pull them and help them grow big, strong and healthy in foster. They’re available to be pulled now.”
In the meantime, there are older, bigger dogs in a big fix in Carrollton. The bottom line was in the last sentence in the appeal from the shelter: “If these animals are not rescued or adopted by 5 pm on Friday, December 2, 2022, they may need to be considered for euthanasia.”

So, there you go. Saving these animals is up to the hearts of animal-loving human beings. The shelter has made it’s appeal to support groups and others. The note also read that Carrollton’s shelter is “using this approach to reach out to our supporting rescue groups for assistance with saving some of our more difficult-to-place or special needs animals. The Adoption Center has had great success in placing the adoptable animals, but some, because of size, disposition, or special conditions, have not been placed and are in immediate need of rescue support. Although we have avoided the use of the word “urgent,” the fact is, that your support is desperately needed to save these animals.”
And added complication? Here’s the answer: “As an open-intake facility, Carrollton Animal Services sees new animals arriving daily and we are often pressed for space.”
That girl with the happy face and the wagging tail is Spice, a 6-year-old, 35-pound Black Mouth Cur mix. Spayed. Healthy. Got her vaccines. Her bio reads, “She came into the shelter as an owner surrender back in August because she was too active for her aging owner. Spice is house-trained, walks well on leash, knows a few commands and does well with children. She can get overstimulated with playtime, so she should be monitored with smaller children. Spice has never met a stranger but can be selective with other dogs, so it is recommended that she meet any potential fur siblings before adoption.” And click HERE to see a video of Spice happily playing at the shelter. She’s beautiful and her tail is dynamic! 
This is the Pointer/Pittie mix Raspberry, clearly an Earhound. She’s a spayed 6-month-old who weighs 33 healthy pounds. Her bio reads, “
She loves to play with toys and will carry one while she walks. She is a very social butterfly. Raspberry is a smart girl who learns quickly. She is house trained, walks well on leash and appears to do well with other dogs. She has been seen by families with children and has done very well. Raspberry is an active pup looking to please her handler. She was adopted for a week, but returned because she was too much for them to handle. She came into the shelter as a stray in September.” Click HERE TO SEE RASPBERRY AT PLAY.
This boy is Santana, said to be a “Pit Bull mix.” [LARRY ASIDE: I have some experience with dogs and I’m just about certain that Santana’s a Pit Bull mixed with Angel — look at that face! Back to the official bio.] Santana is 4, weighs 65 healthy pounds and his bio reads, “While in his kennel he acts like he is a hyper nut; he is really a calm boy who just wants to cuddle. He was adopted for a few days but returned because the adopters weren’t ready for a dog. He is pretty good with his house-training and walks pretty well on leash. He loves everyone who stops by his kennel and appears to do well with other dogs. He came into the shelter as a stray back in September.” His video is HERE .  [LARRY ASIDE. The video is described as a “cuddling” video. See, like I said, “an angel mix.”]
This girl is S’mores, a 3-year-old spayed Pit Bull mix who weighs 54 pounds and is healthy and vaccinated. S’mores bio reads that she “came into the shelter as a stray back in September. She walks well on leash, and is working on house-training. She is a well-mannered girl who loves belly rubs. She is alert to what is going on in the shelter and is always on the lookout for the next person to love on her.” 
S’mores’ video is HERE and while you’ll see her affectionate side, you’ll also see her beautiful coat in a well-lit circumstance. [LARRY ASIDE: Once again, I am staggered by the fact that people let such a beautiful sweet dog “go stray” — I don’t know, but maybe it’s a good thing the original humans didn’t claim her. Might not have been good for the dog.]

We’re going to close Carrollton’s “adopt-or-rescue by December 2 list with this dog Layla. She’s beautiful and can make a heart sign with her forelegs. That’s worth a lifetime in a human’s home. Layla is described as a "Pitt Bull/Catahoula mix” who is spayed, 8 years old and 74 pounds with all her shots and a negative heartworm status.
Layla’s story reads that she “came into the shelter back in August as an owner-surrender. Layla can be a little slow to warm up to new people, but she is doing much better than when she first came in. Layla is a senior lady who doesn’t want to share her throne  with other girl dogs, but she won’t bat an eye with a male dog. Layla is house-trained and walks well on leash. She knows a few commands, but should be monitored around children.” This is the LINK TO LAYLA’S VIDEO and, as you watch it, you’ll think, “That is one happily romping dog!” and, maybe, “I can give her a great home.”
 Remember, these dogs are all on the December 2 “list.” If you can take one or two you can still link people you know to readlarrypowell.com and challenge ‘em to read the Carrollton report without getting just a little bit teary eyed over the fate the shelter is trying to avoid.
And, as you may realize already, Carrollton’s shelter isn’t just trying to find homes for dogs. There’s a passel of cats looking for a home, too. We picked this guy Quincy to spotlight. As you can see in the “Quincy getting into bed” photo, he has a great face. And in that mugshot you can see that he has a very distrinct pattern on his forehead. Handsome fellow. He’s 10 years, 3 months and 22 days old, the shelter says. A medium-sized, neutered male, he came into the shelter on Halloween. Nobody claimed him. Nobody. But if you’re a cat-lover with an opening in your household, he’s #51425457 at the shelter. He’s waiting in the Cat Room. See more Carrollton animals at THIS LINK.

 
MEANWHILE, IN MESQUITE
CHECK OUT THE EARHOUND
Volunteer Mesquite Animal Services dog biographer Debra Chisholm forwarded us one more pre-holiday note. It included this bio from her collegue in dog-writing, Judi Brown. I’m telling you, these two dog-writers work hard to get to know the dogs and get them into decent homes. 

Judi’s topic is this dog Brownie, referred to by the shelter manager as “really cute!” Judi writes, “I agree. He is a one-year-old, 51-pound brown and white Pittie terrier that came into the Mesquite Animal Shelter on 11/11 as a stray. He is not fixed. 

“He’s got a stocky, solid, athletic body that’s relatively low to the ground. He also has stand-up ears. 
“After being cooped up in his kennel when I got him out to the yard he initially was like a wild child but very shortly settled down. He actually sat looking up at me as though he was wanting to know what I expected of him. He has a lot of enthusiasm and a zest for life! The world is his playground and that’s basically what he wants to do. He wants to play! He found toys and entertained himself with them. He would fetch and retrieve balls and toys that I threw for him. If I ignored him he would push the toy up against me. He didn’t seem to tire of chasing objects. He sat for treats and took them gently. He is very friendly and wagged his tail constantly. He’s a happy guy!”
There’s more to his bio on the Mesquite shelter site. But, I’ll summarize by adding this from Judi’s report: “Brownie would do the best with an active family with a fairly large size yard. He will need a lot of exercise but will give you a lot of love in return! This cutie won’t be at the shelter long so if you’re interested please don’t wait. He's in quarantine due to limited space so you will have to ask to see him.”
Brownie’s ID is #51515042 — use it when you call the shelter at 972-21-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com. [LARRY ASIDE: To me, the look on Brownie’s face in that final photo is a guy saying, “Sir, good to see you. I think it’s time we talked for a moment about your life insurance policy and how to upgrade it.”]
See more of Mesquite’s adorable adoptables by clicking on the SHELTER LINK HERE. Plenty of dogs, plenty of cats, too. And, in fact, that cat is #49288019 and she is the first cat in the decades-long history of readlarrypowell.com who has been named Celestite. She’s a month short of being 2 years old. Small girl, cream-colored and came in on Nov. 19. You can find her in Mesquite’s Cat Room. [LARRY ASIDE: I’m curious as a cat when it comes to names and words, so I went online to discover the meaning of Celestite. Here’s THAT LINK. And here’s the opening sentence: “Celestite, also known as Celestine, is a mineral that forms blue crystals. Celestite is often associated with divine power and is thought to increase understanding, higher consciousness, as well as mindfulness when used in meditation and prayer.” So, having been around cats for decades, I think Celestite might just fit the mental aim of "increasing understanding, higher concsciousness” and a more tranquil marriage. OK, I’m kidding about that last thing. But you never know!]
A THANKSGIVING CONTEMPLATION
FOR THE DAY YOU NEED TO WALK OFF SOME CALORIES
I’ll confess, my funspouse Martha has been in the kitchen for a good bit of the day preparing most-excellent dishes for the big family grubfest on Thanksgiving. While she was doing that, I was swearing on a stack of Drop the Spoon, Drop the Pounds Cookbooks that I will avoid more than one careful serving of pies, cakes, vegetarian dressing, biscuits, cornbread…well, it takes a while for me to swear off a meal the size of Thanksgiving. But I am very, very thankful for the people I’ll enjoy the day with in 2022 and the people I’ve shared it with in all previous years — relatives, strangers and other newspaper employees who couldn’t get the day off.
But, you know, you always need something uplifting to do the day after Thanksgiving — you have to counterbalance the emotions you may be feeling after that Dallas Cowboys game. 
So, I’ve spotted something. It arrived in a Thanksgiving note from the wonderful folks at Straydog Inc., the legendary East Texas “rescue, rehab, rehome …No-Kill Dog Shelter and Sanctuary.” The opening paragraph was a bit of a “thanks” to the people who support Straydog because it told what their help does . It reads, “Each Thanksgiving our residents show their thanks with tail wags, excited smiles and barks and we show it as we do every day, by caring for their health and happiness.” The note continues with “We also share a delicious meal in appreciation for our amazing team, residents and supporters!” And closes with, “We hope wherever your are, you feel as much love and joy as we do. Thank you for every donation, like and share on social media and ongoing advocacy for ou residents and mission.” I bring this up because it’s the right thing to do at Thanksgiving. And, you see those dogs in the photos? If you’re looking for something to do on Saturday to keep you from eating leftovers and to make your heart feel good about life, you can drop by the Tractor Supply in Athens from 9 a.m. to noon and maybe adopt a Thanksgiving weekend dog you can walk your neighborhood with while you’re trying to work off the consequences of one-slice-too-many of pumpkin pie, pecan pie or some kind of expertly-made cake that came out of your own kitchen! Here’s something I’ve learned in my decades as a dieter: You cannot “sleep off” excess poundage! Not a lot of exercise involved in snoring.
Happy Thanksgiving and bless the dogs and cats that we’re thankful for day after day.
—— Offer diet tips by clicking on ‘comment’ or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put DROP THAT SPOON, LAUGHING BOY in the subject line. —-

FOR THANKSGIVING EVE, SOME ANIMALS AND SOME THANKS....

EDITION OF THANKSGIVING EVE, NOV. 23, 2022 [PetPowellPress] We’re clearly headed toward the GREAT American holiday. Giving thanks indeed. It’s such a personal holiday. Especially for rescuers.

One thing I’m thankful for is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Never been there, but some day I’d like to see it in person — though I’d probably be watching it on my cellphone at the same time — I’m a 21st century dude.
That’s one of my personal cats, Stevie Ray, an Oak Cliff native, who is having a post-snack talk with his pal, Yuletide Earl, a seasonal critter named in honor of our late Rottie Texas Earl The Cheeseman. We think he identifies as a reindeer, though he may be a dog. Yuletide Earl. who lives year-round in my office, will soon be getting into character for his role in our front yard production of the hit Thanksgiving musical, “Even Vegetarians Say ‘Thanks'." You remember the hit song: “Don’t Bite Anything That’ll Bite You Right Back.” I might have made up that stuff about the musical. [LARRY ASIDE: Someone call an agent — I’m ready for Broadway.]

Another Thanksgiving highlight is the gathering of loved ones — sometimes fewer than the previous year, but nearly always with joy and jokes, hugs and memories. The people giving thanks don’t have to be relatives; they can be colleagues, neighbors, people you barely know — all united by thankfulness.
 And, yes there’s amazing food that you can’t buy in a restaurant — a restaurant wouldn’t sell some of the stuff I’ve eaten at Thanksgiving. Just kidding my Mom in the Hereafter — there was the year her three sons played pitch with the rolls she’d accidentally overcooked. Clearly, we weren’t spanked enough. But we always found time to laugh.
What? Oh, yeah. There’s a Dallas Cowboys game — try not to let it upset your digestion, right? OK, keep reading. We have a Contemplation of Thanksgiving after we try to help some animals.
A HALF-DOZEN DOGS
WAIT IN FANNIN COUNTY
We’ve been semi-monitoring this situation since October. And we hope that, by the time you read this, it has been happily resolved. But, just in case it hasn’t, perhaps you can help or you know someone who can help. 
See that dog Hank? If you can’t read his caption, click on his photo and it’ll grow big enough to read (I’m led to believe by the CompuWizards.). And it tells a story and ends with this question: “Can you love me?” 
A woman named “Ceason” is the human who basically saved the six dogs when they were dumped at her home over a period of five years. Now, she’s trying to help them overcome this latest predicament. And it’s a difficult challenge.

Our tipsters tell us that the six dogs became in need of a home when the woman’s landlord “sold the property and she has had to move in with relatives who will not let her take the dogs.” The dogs are in Fannin County, a not-too-long-drive north of Dallas County. 
Hank is one of six dogs who basically were “dumped” on the property. It’s been a struggle to keep them out of a pound, we’re told. To ask about helping any of them, call or text Ceason at 701-500-7978.
 One of our tipsters says “the girls are all fixed, as is Doug, the Mastiff mix.” Freddy, the Pittie mix, isn’t fixed. Nor is Hank. Their rescuer “didn’t have the money to fix them all, but wanted to make sure there were no puppies.”
Who are the dogs? 
Smoke is that black dog photographed in a “leaning” pose — His caption reads that he’s about 4, likes to stay by himself “but when I’m ready, the kisses are on! … I have a hair loss that has been caused by stress (I’m a loner). Can you take me in and love me and help with my nerves?”

Doug’s caption reads, “I used to be an aggressive doggo, but love and patience and being neutered have changed me completely. I just want to love and be loved.”
Freddy doesn’t have a caption, but that dog’s look and his face demonstrate how happy and loving he is.
The solid black dog is Darla. Her caption read, I am approx 2 yrs old and I am spayed. … I love to run and play, especially in a water puddle. Good with kids. Please help me find a furever home.”

That girl with the white-tipped tail is Spark. Her bio caption reads, “I am approx 4 yrs old and I am spayed. I am kind of shy and nervous but i want to sit in your lap or run circles around the yard. I would love to be your new family member.”

And, there you have it — it’s not just the big city shelters that find themselves with more big ol’ dogs than they know what to do with — but they darned sure want to save their lives. 

LARRY THANKSGIVING TIMEOUT
TO MENTION SOME WORKERS…
Take a moment to think about all the people who work on Thanksgiving to give you a good ol’ American holiday under trying circumstances. First responders. TV and radio broadcast teams. Newspaper reporters and sportswriters. Referees, concessions workers, hospital employees…am I leaving anyone out? Truck drivers, railway workers, airline workers….
And we must note, of course, the members of the U.S. Congress and, of course, the Texas Legislature. Wait. I must have read my notes wrong. Those politicians are, I’m almost certain, doing what office-holders who retire say they want to do: “Spend more time with my family.” Oh, I’m just kidding the politicians — every now and then they need a moment of levity. And remember: the phrase “moment of levity” is not exactly synonymous with “something to laugh at.” Now, back to the dogs and cats and their advocates.
MEANWHILE IN MESQUITE,
MORE DOGS, CATS & PEOPLE
It occurs to me that they’re all working together — the dogs and cats work with the people to make sure everybody puts the best face on the story of finding good homes for animals who are so close to having a major Thanksgiving in their lives. It’s a team effort.
For example, if you click on THIS LINK you’ll quickly be looking at dogs and cats who are waiting for adoption or rescue in the Mesquite Shelter. Each has a bio. A team -- volunteers and employees -- has worked hard to give visitors a profile of the adorable adoptables. We’re going to feature a few of them today and, also, wish a very wonderful Thanksgiving for not just these animals but for all the big hearts who have helped the critters into the “Spotlight of Affection.”
Our pal Judi Brown, volunteer dog-writer at the Mesquite Animal Shelter, did this bio of Monty and he immediately caught our attention because of this sentence: "He’s painfully thin.” Judi also added, “He’s handsome now, but can’t you imagine how regal he’ll look when his body fills out? He is a one-year-old, 48-pound German Shepherd mix that came to the Mesquite Shelter on 11/12 as a stray. He is fixed. I was met in his kennel with tail wags and kisses! When we got into the kennel yard I found it difficult to take pictures of him because he stayed so close. I was literally going around in circles trying to step back from him. Part of the reason he was staying close was for affection but another part was because he’s hungry and he knew I had some treats. … Monty is sweet, friendly, loving, attentive, and alert. He has the potential of being a devoted companion.”

Monty is #51519207 — use that ID when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@mesquite.com.

At the other end of the German Shepherd Spectrum, Judi found this fellow, Jake [#51512050]. Here’s what she wrote: “Jake is an old guy, but don’t tell him that because he’s got more love to give and more life to live! He is a 10-year-old German Shepherd mix that weighs 78 pounds and arrived … on 11/11 as a stray. He is not fixed. Judging from the condition of his coat and the concrete calluses on his elbows I’m assuming he’s been mostly an outside dog that hasn’t been well taken care of.  A nutritious diet would certainly give him a healthier coat! ... He has such a strong sense of smell that he kept his nose to the ground during most of the photo shoot. He was more interested in smelling and checking out the yard than spending time with me. I get the feeling he hasn’t had much socialization. However that does not mean he’s not very loving and accepting of affection. When I called him he came to me immediately. He nuzzled his head in my lap and seemed to enjoy having his ears scratched. … Please consider getting this senior dog out of the shelter and into your loving home.”

Our pal Debra Chisholm found a pair of siblings to write about — “two of the sweetest pups you will ever meet.” 
That boy Cookie and his sister Oreo were surrendered to the shelter on Nov. 17 because “the owner had too many animals.” 
Cookie, about 5 months old, weighs 31 pounds and “seems mystified as to why and how he has ended up where he’s at. He is timid, shy and unsure of himself. He is kenneled with his sister and another dog and they all do fine together. … He has tremendous potential to be a loving pet to a person or family willing to stay committed to him, giving lots of playtime, exercise and training and, of course, without saying, life indoors with his people. 
Cookie is #51551994. 

Oreo is #51551997. And the “dog scanner app,” Debra writes, “suggested the following mixes in her breed: Perro de Pastor Mallorquin, Lab Retriever and Beuceron.” Like Cookie, Oreo is 5 months old — shes a few pounds lighter at 29. And she’s also |experiencing “bewilderment.” It is, Debra writes, “as to what this place is, where they have landed and what is going to happen to them.” Oreo was frightened when she walked past kennels where the dogs were barking at her. Like her bother, she is “timid, shy and nervous.” Loves treats. Probably trainable. And, Debra writes, “Oreo has an easy-going, mellow personality and is a gentle soul….[She] is friendly and seemed to want to draw some comfort from a trusted human companion.” 

Debra also wrote, “No dogs belong in a city shelter, especially not puppies this young, so please consider whether you can help Oreo out of the shelter and on the way to her forever home.” 
Goes for Cookie, too.
So use their ID numbers when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.
Two more of many at Mesquite? That Pittie boy is Cane (#50727946). Debra writes that he was picked up as a stray on Nov. 15 — weighs in at 60 pounds and is about 3 years old. Not neutered. Description? “This is one lively and energetic fellow who has a confident and outgoing personality. …Cane does not appear to know any commands. He wasn’t interested in toys or balls. He is an on-the-go kind of fellow.”
Debra added, “Our shelter is critically overfull. Many days there are more dog intakes than adoptions and rescues. We are pleading for help.”
And, of course, here is an Earhound. Debra says his # is 51550935 and, she writes, “This is one adorable pup that I’ve named Maxwell. He has Black Mouth Cur/Malinois in the mix.” Came in as a stray on the 17th. At about 5 months old, he weighs 26 pounds, walks OK on a leash and didn’t show any “negative reactions to the other shelter dogs who were barking at him.” And, she says, “He is a spunky and exuberant youngster with a delightful personality….a fun-loving, tail-waging puppy. … Maxwell was totally OK with receiving petting, snuggles and cuddling.”

When you click on THIS LINK you'll reach the Mesquite Animal Shelter's collection of animals and

photos and adorable adoptables.
That kitten on the left is Pluto (#51109566) — came in on Sept 13, so may have grown a bit since that picture. Cute hair. Has a sibling with the same pattern among the adoptables at Mesquite. That’s her: Belle (#51109563) who also came in on sept 13. They’re pushing 3 months old. Cats — you’ll be thankful when one loves you. Voice of experience typing.
CONTEMPLATION
A DOG’S STORY AND THANKSGIVING
When I read this note posted by rescuer/advocate Laurie Gautreaux, I thought the word “Thanksgiving” fit right into the story. And since we’re on the brink of the holiday, it touches my heart as an appropriate message from an experienced rescuer. The story, posted several days ago, is based at Fort Worth Animal Care & Control’s southern campus. Veteran rescuers will appreciate what Laurie has written.
IT BEGINS: 
Rescue is hard and everyday it seems to get harder! I literally cry daily but then I get reminded there are still good humans who care. It’s the little things that make it all worth it. Four days ago this 8-year-old dog’s life was turned upside down. The human who owned him his entire life died. He was surrendered to a full shelter and put on the Code Red list. Thankfully one of the amazing staff members in intake Deirdre Hodgkins posted him. I went to visit him and immediately fell in love. I knew his days were limited so I posted and prayed. My prayers came true today! Now named Eugene, it’s only good days for you from now on my sweet old man. Thank you Krisha Peachy Nelson and the rest of the Bull luv able Paws and Chi Wawas Rescue family!”
Happy Thanksgiving, Eugene. Bless your heart. May you be the first of many, many rescued from the “Code Red” animals in shelters all over the nation from this day on. Pet that dog and give him a treat. Hug him, too. I'm going to go hug our dogs, our cats and maybe even my Thanksgivingspouse Martha.
—- Offer ideas of hope by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com. —-

ONE PARTICULAR NOVEMBER DAY, SOME ANIMALS NEED HELP; WE LOOK BACK BRIEFLY, TOO

EDITION OF TUESDAY, NOV. 22, 2022 [PetPowellPress] On this particular day, we’re going to move right into the good side of humans and how they’ll work to save animals and help each other save animals and …. well, you know. As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s appropriate to be thankful for the “animal nuts” of our part of the world. We’ll have a Contemplation, too.
AND HERE’S A NOTE
ABOUT TULA THE CAT
You may remember this beauty Tula. We’ve been keeping up with her via our longtime tipster, the veteran animal advocate’/rescuer Kimberly Jones. 
She reports that from a clowder of cats abandoned when their humans left and the house was demolished, there is now just Tula needing a home. Her former partner in waiting, Frida, has been adopted.
Tula is “living alone now in the cold on the empty lot where her home once stood,” the update reads.
She’s adorable and adoptable and the contact is Hailey Bell at HBellPhoto@gmail.com. 
Tula is the only cat of 5 remaining unadopted after their home was flattened several months ago. [LARRY ASIDE: Ain’t people just swell sometimes! Makes you proud as all gitout, don’t it! — Larry FYI: I lapsed into my Northeast Texas Accent of Astonishment.]
A COUPLE OF DOGS
WAITING IN FERRIS
We learned of these two “new” listings from 4-Legged Helpers. Both of these dogs are in the small Ferris Animal Shelter, known for being light on human visitors. 
The Helpers report that Emma is a “Golden/Lab Mix.” Just a baby — only 11 weeks old “and she is SO sweet,” her bio reads. “She adores everyone and everything. Loves to be held. Found out and about as a stray.”

That brings us to Leo, a 9-month-old “super cute and super lovable boy” who is “a puppy still.” He is described as a “Carolina Dog.”
The bio reads, “Playful, fun, cute.  Adores everyone and everything including every person and every dog he meets, LOL.  SO CUTE!  He as found out and about as a stray in Hutchins.”
Keep up with 4-Legged Helpers’ attempts to help animals by going to the non-profit’s Facebook page HERE
. And to help these animals or to help the Helpers, call or text 214-949-2726 or email cat_girl_71@yahoo.com.

AN UPDATE: TURKEY TOM

HAS PEOPLE WHO ARE HELPING…
You possibly recall seeing this fellow in Monday morning’s report about how he was found in a dumpster, starving to death, very cold and needing treatment for a puncture wound — could have been stabbed — on his backside.
We’re going over this stuff because Turkey Tom still needs help and Mazie’s Mission still needs donations and support to make sure the dog gets every good break in life, including a proper adoption into a happy home.

Mazie’s MIssion’s vet team’s exam revealed that newly-named Turkey Tom was “filthy, emaciated, dehydrated, and has a large puncture wound over his rear end. We are not sure what caused his injury as it does not appear to be a pressure sore. He has extensive tartar on his teeth due to a poor diet, despite only being about two years old. This poor boy only weighs about 30#, And he should weigh closer to 45 or 50#. Lucky for Turk, he is heartworm and fecal negative!!!
“Despite the abuse and neglect Turk suffered at the hands of humans, he is such a gentle soul and has already won over the hearts of our entire medical team.”
After he was rescued from the trash bin, the Mazie’s Mission folks reported that “sweet Turkey Tom had many firsts. He got a bath (photo on the left) to wash off the smells of the garbage he was found in, a nail trim so his overgrown nails won't hurt him to walk, and he was given his very own soft sweater and a stuffy to keep his bones warm while he gains weight.”
Keep up with him on the Mazie’s Mission Facebook page  where you also can see how to help him and the non-profit make sure he’s healthy and happy and adopted.
That photo with the “stuffy” is the first picture we posted of Turkey Tom. The others show the soft side of him, except for that photograph of what an example of starvation he was when he was pulled out of the trash bin.
[LARRY ASIDE: If anyone recognizes him and knows who dumped him after starving him, let us know — email dallrp@aol.com or, better yet, call the cruelty case authorities. And if you can’t do any of that, send Mazie’s Mission a supportive note and a donation in honor of Turkey Tom, the nearly starved dog who is making a comeback because more people care about loving him than care about dumping him.]
CONTEMPLATIONS
THINKING ABOUT 1963
Nov. 22, 1963? Feels like only yesterday,. But it was, for me, high school. 10th grade. Texas High School, Texarkana, Texas. I came out of the school cafeteria and walked to the front of the school on Pine Street — traditional noontime gathering place. But this time campus conversations were NOT loud and laugh-filled. 
I saw people gathered around the open doors of cars and listening to something on the radio. It wasn’t music — not Walk Right In by The Rooftop Singers or Martha and the Vandellas performing Heat Wave. No. Just the broadcast voices of newsmen. NewsMEN, in those days.
At one of the cars, I learned down to listen and one of my schoolpals says, “Ain’t that some bleep.” And it was. At that point we’d only been told that there’d been gunfire near the presidential motorcade in Downtown Dallas. The buzzterms “grassy knoll” and “triple underpass” hadn’t even been invented yet.

The campus bell rang and we all went to our classes. 
My first class after lunch was Mrs. Hamilton’s Latin II. But, Latin wasn’t our focus. We couldn’t focus. Mrs. Hamilton worked hard to keep our young minds on the old world instead of the outside world. Lost cause. About 15 minutes into the class, the kid whose job was to pick up attendance slips every day, came to the doorway, picked up count for our class and told us, “The President is” he hesitated, then added, “He’s gone.” 
Mrs. Hamilton gasped -- might have cried. I wondered what was going on out in the rest of the world.
And I think the rest of us in that classroom — an assortment of sophomores, juniors and seniors of the Classes of ’64, ’65 and ’66 — found ourselves suddenly living in a whole new world. JFK had come to our town campaigning in 1960. This bold young candidate had stood on the post office plaza with one foot in Texas and one in Arkansas and said he wanted to be president for both sides of town. And now, that world had changed on a Friday afternoon. This new world would prove to be way different than the world our WWII parents had imagined for us.

I’ve spent a lifetime in journalism — starting in 1965. Every year in November for all those decades whatever paper I was working for, whatever TV station I watched, whatever news radio station was broadcasting, the topic was this American tragedy that happened in Dallas. The Greek philosopher Heraclitus is famous for declaring, “The only constant in life Is change.” He knew it in the 6th Century BCE, but that point wasn’t really driven home for us Baby Boomers until Nov. 22, 1963. One day you’re living in the era of Camelot, then, suddenly, you’re in the time of inexplicable tragedy and murder in broad daylight in Downtown Dallas. Still a puzzle. World gets more puzzling, too, doesn’t it.
— Offer ideas by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com. —

FOR MONDAY OF THANKSGIVING WEEK, SOME WAYS TO LIVE UP TO THANKFULNESS

EDITION OF MONDAY, NOV. 20, 2022 [PetPowellPress] What's the best way to start a work-week? I don't know. Wait, of course I do: This is the week of the American Thanksgiving. A reason to smile. ... I haven't checked my weekend Lotto Texas ticket. If the right numbers are there, I will, thus, be in a more authoritative position to declare the "best way to start a workweek." Until then....this mood and a cup of decaf will have to do. And, of course, I'll continue to envy my glorious dog Porche Noel's ability to sleep in a variety of positions on a variety of surfaces with a variety of goals for acquiring a reputation for happy napping no matter what's going on with the weather or international intensities....Everybody who enters the week on a diet -- I'm with you, I'm on your side, I'll eat cookies so you won't be tempted. Let's move on with today's report.
A STORY THAT INSPIRES
THE ASKING OF QUESTIONS
See that dog Porche Noel above-- she's my dog and she came from horrible circumstances that turned her bark into a rasp, makes her limp when she walks and left her starving. She became a great dog.
If I may judge the handsome dog in this photo by the path Porche dared to take (trusting humans), this guy will be a fantastic dog. One of the questions this situation inspires is "How the hell could someone do this to a dog?"
And here's why we know about the dog. 
I got the tip on him earlier in the weekend from somebody who knows and understands dogs, the great Patty Sprong, the legendary foster mom with the legendary heart.
Patty wrote, "Look at this boy that was found stabbed and stuffed in a dumpster! He’s so comfy and warm now. This makes my heart SO happy."

Maybe a Dear Reader will want to give this dog a great home. Get in touch with Mazie's Mission on Facebook HERE
or at the Mazie's Mission website at www.maziesmission.org. And, we're told, this dog, a November rescue, is being called "Turkey Tom." Seems to work, don't you think?
[LARRY ASIDE: My rescuespouse Martha and I were on hand in 2009 when Mazie's Mission opened its first clinic. Since then the mission has held firm. Here's a sentence from the website: "Mazie’s Mission was founded to bring a self-sustaining, focused approach to animal welfare with the purpose of eliminating unnecessary euthanasia." This "dumped dog" is, literally, one of the animals benefiting from the big hearts that have nurtured Mazie's Mission for all these years.]

THREE NEEDING SAFE EXIT
FROM THE EVERMAN SHELTER
We got this from our reliable Everman Animal Shelter tipster Heather Harrison. Here's the story:
"Everman TX is full.  No open kennels.
"These puppies need to get out before it's too late.
"Houie, Douie, & Louie are brothers.  5 months old.  Lab mix. Vaccinated.  Very sweet & curious.  Love human affection.
"They were part of the hoarding case.  Have grown up in a kennel.
"Anyone have open space for even 1 pup?

"IF ABLE TO HELP: Everman Shelter 817-561-5495."
Everman is on the southern side of the southeastern corner of Cowtown, just south of I-20.
[LARRY BABYBOOMER FYI: As a veteran reader of Disney comics (at a much younger age!), I know that while the dogs spell their names as demonstrated, Donald Duck's triplet nephews spell their names "Huey, Dewey, and Louie." I'm almost sure these ducklads endorse saving the lives of the namesake pups.]
MEANWHILE, FROM EAST OF DALLAS,
MESQUITE ADORABLE ADOPTABLES
We'll begin this report from Mesquite with a dog who has been "interviewed" by the volunteer dog writer Debra Chisholm. This is Ernie (#51499400), or, as Debra refers to him, "precious Ernie." 
Debra says Ernie was picked up as a stray on Nov. 9. He's a Border Collie mix who weighs in at about 50 pounds and isn't neutered. The shelter lists his age at 10. Yes, 10, though he may be 2 or 3 years younger, Debra says. Still, she reports, "This senior boy is very uneasy, scared, stressed out and nervous in the shelter environment.  It has caused him to be nippy with the workers who have been handling him.  Ernie is also uncomfortable about having a leash put on and taken off.  One of our volunteers worked with him [last week], spending some time in his kennel helping to see that he could be trusted not to hurt Ernie.  Our volunteer put the leash on and walked him out to the yard.  You can see him cuddling with Bill in the pic.  He walked OK on the leash in the yard and warmed up, letting Bill give him some loving and caring attention.  Ernie has a calm and gentle demeanor, does not jump on you, and is happy to receive loving attention from someone he trusts.  Slow introductions will need to be made with some patience and TLC.  He would no doubt be such a wonderful companion to a person or family who would provide a loving home.  A quiet structured home would seem the best fit and probably not with young children."
To ask about Ernie or any of these other Mesquite animals, use their ID numbers when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmesquite.com.
AND THAT BRINGS US TO MIA (#51537498). Debra writes, "They don't come any cuter or sweeter than Mia. She's a Black Mouth Cur/mixed breed girl that was surrendered to the Mesquite Animal Shelter with 3 pups due to owners having too many animals.  Her owners brought Mia and 11-12 pups to surrender a few weeks ago.  The shelter was critically overcrowded (and still is) and they were told they would need to make an appointment to surrender.  They surrendered Mia and 3 of her pups on 11/15 and will be bringing another 4 pups in the near future.  Mia weighs 45 pounds, is approximately 3 years old and is not spayed.  She is such a gentle soul with a mild and low-key nature.  ... Mia is friendly and is very happy to receive loving attention.  She loves treats. ... Her main interests seemed to be obtaining treats and exploring the yard.  If you met this precious girl, she would capture your heart."

Dexter (#49723269) is, Debra writes, "a very lively and high- spirited Catahoula Leopard that was surrendered to the Mesquite Animal Shelter on 11/10.  Reason for the surrender was that Dexter jumped on a child and that he gets out of their fence.  He weighs 76 pounds, is a year old and is neutered.  The back story on Dexter was that he was adopted as a 4-month-old puppy from the Mesquite Shelter and is now being returned.  The cute little puppy has now grown up. He was mostly a backyard dog.  It seems reasonable to assume he has not had any obedience training nor has he been worked with to teach some basic manners.  ...  He jumps quite a bit on you and that will need to be addressed.  At this point he would not be a good fit for a family with young children because of the jumping.  Staff members report that he takes redirection well.  ... Dexter would seem best suited to a person or family who will stay committed and work with him on learning commands, as well as exercise and play with him daily. ...Spunky and frisky Dexter has so much potential for the person or family willing to invest the time and effort in training him.
Oh, and we have a "re-run' on a Border Collie type in Mesquite. Volunteer dog-writer Judi Brown, in describing this fellow Romeo, wrote, "Border collies are known for their intelligence and there’s no doubt that Romeo could be at the head of his class!"

He's #51438611 at Mesquite, a 3-year-old Border Collie/Aussie Shepherd mix who is, she says, "an affectionate ball of fluff who lives up to his name."
Now, there's a good reason he's getting the "re-run treatment." But anybody who has ever been around dogs knows how these things can simply happen with no malice intended. Romeo hasn't been adoptable lately because, Judi writes, "Unfortunately, he’s been in quarantine. During a meet and greet with an elderly lady Romeo wanted extra loving and jumped on the lady. The result was a very insignificant scratch but according to state law he had to be put in quarantine. As we all know this is very difficult on the dog so he needs out ASAP. He’s still the wonderful dog described [previously]. Please please tag or adopt. We are more than overcrowded and this is a very deserving beautiful dog.
Romeo came into the shelter as a stray on Halloween. Not fixed. Judi reported earlier, "He is very gentle and well mannered. He sat patiently while I tied a scarf around his neck. He sits for treats and takes them gently. He comes when you call him. He likes to have his ears scratched and gives kisses. He chases balls and entertains himself with them. He is very sweet, affectionate, friendly and well mannered. He is energetic but not overly so."
When you click on this LINK  and navigate it'll take you to the photos and bios of more Mesquite animals -- dogs and cats and kittens and puppies and you'll find #51410147, a handsome black and white fellow named Rascal. He's 2 years and 25 days old and needs a home. He came into the shelter on October 27. You can find him waiting for a responsible human in the Mesquite shelter's "Cat Room." 

CONTEMPLATIONS
FOR A MONDAY EDITION...
How 'bout them Cowboys? Yes, where were these guys when the team was playing Green Bay? Yeah, that was mean of me to type. I almost feel guilty. But I'll get over it. Been watching the Dallas Cowboys for a long time -- since rabbit ears caught the games' signals and since the inaugural season of 1960 when the team played in the Cotton Bowl in Fair Park, Eddie LeBaron was quarterback and the team finished 0-11-1 --- the lone tie was a 31-31 game on Dec. 4, 1960, in Yankee Stadium against the New York Giants. Coincidentally, they play the Giants on Thanksgiving Day in Arlington. No idea what the odds are for a 31-31 tie. ...
It's the week of Thanksgiving! A reason to move forward with a happy attitude. Save the turkeys and any other animal who has a reputation as a tasty Thanksgiving main course. All we are sayyyying, is give peas a chance....
In keeping with the theme of "don't blow the world apart," we cite the lyrics of the 1974 Al Wilson recording La La Peace Song. Click HERE
--- Seek a peaceful Thanksgiving and click on 'COMMENT' below or email dallrp@aol.com and type 'HUMANS CAN DO BETTER' in the subject line. ---

THE SCIENCE OF SLEEPING AND NAPPING IN THE WORLD OF DOGS AND CATS....

This weekend's edition of Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap serves as a scientific observation platform.
 Don't let that scare you. There won't be a test -- except testing whether you might chuckle at the concept. Remember: Stay warm and read on.
This intellectual endeavor is not quite in the research league of NASA's current Artemis I moon shot, but it is every bit as demonstrable as using pictures of Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin to prove that man has landed on the moon. (Just 12 humans so far, but when it comes to sleeping/napping animals on earth, the evidence is much stronger that one giant leap for a cat is one snoozing couch for dogkind.)
Yes, that is why so many of us have furniture in our homes. So the animals have a comfortable place to sleep.

Now, here is the assertion inspired by our photographic research: Through the application and analysis of evidence in candid photographs, we have formed what may well be a historical breakthrough regarding interspecies influence and communication.
 We think we have photographic evidence that animals of one species willfully teach companion animals of another species to sleep in the most advantageously comfortable and comforting positions.
Many years ago, the inadvertent researchers at readlarrypowell.com began living with a gentlemanly older cat. His name, as official documents reveal, was The Senator. You see him above in a pose he would take as he drew to a close in his daily stretch and dance routine. Perhaps you have seen professional dancers in just such a pose -- we do not know if they had any contact with this influential feline, The Senator, rest his soul. Much of his work in The Senate is not available to the public at this time -- we are unsure if he was involved in guiding classified research into human behavior.

Years ago, early in the previous decade, we brought two rescued dogs into the house -- you've seen them before. We're proud of them. We keep up with their personal lives and their ambitions, i.e., their appetites for life.
 In the second photo of The Senator, you see him in the "leg down" position on the back of his favorite chair, one of my slumberspouse Martha's recliners. No cat has ever napped with the intense intention of The Senator. And he was a seasoned communicator, addressing dogs and cats, i.e., both sides of the aisle, as if he needed everyone's vote. He was the consummate cat. A champion of diplomacy. Washington needed him.

As you see in the first dog photo, Porche Noel discovered the joy of "Leg Down Slumber" on the back of the living room couch. Porche, as she must have learned from The Senator, experienced the "Joy of Dogsleep."

So did Wendy, captured in that copycat, so to speak, leg-down position on the edge of the couch.

Neither Wendy nor Porche has ever had a moment of trouble nodding off. 
Thus, we present this theory: Two dogs learned the proper position of "leg-draping" from a cat who understood and promoted the joy of cat-napping as a way of achieving peace on earth.
As voice actress/author JoJo Jensen is quoted: "Without enough sleep, we all become tall two-year-olds."

Now, if we can just talk the world's leaders into adopting the peaceful "Drape-a-Leg Style" of napping to take some pressure off the rest of us. The Senator would be helping if he hadn't been summoned to a higher position. Got his name because he looked as if he'd had official U.S. Senate Hairplugs.
[DEAR READERS, Please send photos of your sleeping dogs, napping cats or slumbering relatives visiting for the holidays to dallrp@aol.com. Include their biographies. We'll spotlight 'em in our long-running weekend feature Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. You'll be helping people decide to buy new furniture so the dogs and cats can sleep. And you'll be helping insomniacs have faith that they can get some sleep if they can just decide how to drape a leg over the back of the couch without kicking out a window or falling between the sofa and the living room wall. (LARRY CONFESSION: There would have been a photo of me stretched across the back of the couch while dangling one arm and one leg toward the cushions but it would have been a lousy selfie and my insomnia affects my balance -- and there are laws....)]

--- Offer slumbertips or furniture styles by clicking on 'comment' below or by emailing dallrp@aol.com and put LAY OFF THE PM JAVA in the subject line. ---