ReadLarryPowell.com

AS WE CONSIDER THE WEATHER NOW, WE LOOK AT THE WEATHER 'THEN' AND TODAY'S ADORABLE ANIMALS

EDITION OF TUESDAY, JAN. 31/WEDNESDAY, FEB. 1, 2023 [PetPowellPress] I was sitting in the home office around 8 a.m. Tuesday when I looked out the window, saw a flash over the neighborhood, heard a clap of thunder and suddenly there was the sound of a zillion BBs being dropped into a laundry basket covered with aluminum foil. Not really a bouncing sound, more like a hit and stick sound. Our peaceful hilltop was being coated by what is called “sleet” in polite company. You may call it whatever you wish in the privacy of your home. "Thunder sleet," the weathercasters say. 
The sight of the pelting almost made me forget all about the Dallas Cowboys post-season.
OK, as we all wait for a spring thaw in the middle of a curiously odd Texas winter, we’ll proceed with today’s report. [LARRY FYI: I chose not to post a winter photo with this opening. Why? Because we’ve all seen enough of winter. Right?] Yes, I am perilously close to missing the Summer of 2022. That’s a photo of blue sky and fluffy white clouds I took about 3 p.m. on August 12, 2022, on I-30 East between Fort Worth and Arlington — you’ll note the big truck  rolling along on a major freeway with no de-icing treatment flowing out onto the highway. Comforting, isn’t it. The temp was a chilly 91 that afternoon. Now, we'll move into the future -- no sweat.
‘I PUT A BUNCH OF MEAT
IN THE BACKSEAT OF MY CAR’
Thought that headline might catch your eye. And I also thought this “before” photo of Kedrick might get your attention, too.
I learned of this adventure when I clicked on the Society For Companion Animals site and found the video featuring SFCA Founder/Guiding Light Tawana Couch’s story of Kedrick’s rescue. She’d been trying to catch him for days and he didn’t want to be leased so, she says, “I put a bunch of meat in the backseat of my car and he climbed in and was eating away and that’s when I shut the door and off we go….. He was crying all the way.” [LARRY ASIDE: Keep reading for the triumph of Kedrick. That photo on the right gives you a hint -- he's happily riding without a snack in that picture.]
On a note seeking equipment and volunteers, there was also this declaration by SFCA: “2022 WAS A GREAT YEAR! We rescued 182 dogs and 13 cats this past year, thanks to all of our volunteers and your donations.” 
The donations needed for 2023 not only include money, but, the appeal reads, “Crates — all size crates are accepted….Kennel bowls, dry dog food, bath & hand towels.” See how to help SFCA by donating or by volunteering at SFCA's WEBSITE HERE.  And you can email [email protected] to ask about helping with her enduring efforts to get dogs and cats unwanted in our Zip Codes onto airplanes that will take them to distant places where they’ll be loved and appreciated.

And that bring us to the mugshot of the happy and rejuvenated South Dallas street dog Kedrick who has recovered from his physical challenges and is an adored, admired, adopted rescue dog who loves to ride in the car. See the whole Kedrick video by CLICKING HERE. 
MEANWHILE, HERE’S A LOOK
AT ELPO’s ADORABLE ADOPTABLES
I’ve been writing about East Lake Pet Orphanage in Dallas ever since it came into being, It us a happily realized dream of the renowned veterinarian, Dr. Karen Fling.
That was in 2001. And the mission since the first critter came in on a quest to find a good home has been this: “Connecting People & Pets For The Mutual Enrichment of Life.” That’s a great mission.
And, as it turns out, ELPO has grown through the years and has succeeded through the years and continues to be a great example of living up to the mission.
 So, as sleet pelted our yard while our readlarrypowell.com household dogs and cats lounged in comfortable warmth, we figured we’d take a look at the animals available for adoption at East Lake Pet Orphanage. When you click on the Orphanage’s website HERE, you’ll see all sorts of animals to help, plus you can click on a tab labeled VOLUNTEER and there you can see how you can help with the mission.
Among the animals we spotted among the adorable availables at ELPO are that cat and these dogs. That cat is Harriet and I picked her photo because it clearly shows a cat who is comfortable visiting the “shoulder rest” of a human being! That is an adorable pose — I say that as a friend of cats.
Harriet’s story reads that she is a “a new orphan after her owner could no longer keep her. Harriet is friendly and has pretty green eyes. She’s about 4 years old. Come meet her at the Cat Care Center.”
Astrid, with the wonderful eyes and natural eye-shadow, is described in her bio as “a beautiful 9- week-old Shepherd-Husky mix. She loves to play and run outside. Come meet her today!”
And that wonderfully coated fellow is Skipper. His bio is enlightening and endearing. It reads, “Skipper is loved by all who meet him. He is a lap dog who just wants to be by his people. Skipper is a 12-year-old Schipperke.”
 [LARRY ASIDE: Here’s the sentence that’ll catch the heart of anybody who’s ever loved a dog.]
ELPO’s bio of Skipper reads, “This boy is the perfect little shadow. He loves short walks, toys, and his bed. He has never met a person he did not love — big or small. Skipper does have diabetes but it is managed with medication. This little ball of fluff will melt any heart. Come meet him today!”

East Lake Pet Orphanage is at 10101 E. Northwest Highway, as is the East
Lake Veterinary Hospital. And the East Lake Cat Care Center is at 10040 Shoreview Road in Dallas. Call the Veterinary Hospital and the Orphanage at 214-342-3100 and call East Lake Cat & Kitten Adoption Center at 214-342-CATS (That’s 2287). Email the Orphanage and the Cat Care Center at [email protected].
CONTEMPLATIONS
ON A WINTER DAY, LOOKING AHEAD…
I’m on a lot of commercial mailing lists — probably word has gotten around that I am potential Lotto Texas winner. Yep. Got to be the reason. Anyway, I opened a letter from the commercial arm of The Old Farmers Almanac on Tuesday morning — that’s The Old Farmers Store and I found this pro-gardening sign. Since I'm aware of the varied ugly applications of the word “hoarding” in the animal world, I finally found some amusement in “hoard” when I saw it used in this sign. I might even have smiled. Let me hasten to add that this does not reflect on my agrispouse Martha’s plans for the front porch flowerbeds or the backyard attempts to grow tomatoes and other edibles (once again). Summer heat can be a villain when it comes to backyard farmin’. … 

All this sleet and all this ice and all these schools closing for the weather and here I am not enrolled in any school and I am lacking the excitement over the term “snowday.” Yes, I have “aged out” of the “snowday” concept. Happened years ago, it turns out — three or four, I think. ...
One more weather thought as I type in gloves with the finger tips missing so I can feel the keys while keeping the knuckles loose: I am almost on the brink of missing the Summer of 2022 and, you may recall, it was one hot SOB, i.e., Sizzler Of a Barometric Reading.
— Offer some kind of significant advice by clicking on ‘comment’ or by emailing [email protected] and put ‘MAYBE I HAVE AN IDEA, MR. VACANT’ in the subject line. —-

WEATHER'S MOODY NATURE AND ANIMALS NEEDING UPBEAT HUMANS

EDITION OF MONDAY, JAN. 30/TUESDAY, JAN. 31, 2023 [PetPowellPress] Lovely Monday, ain’t it? I’m trying to use short sentences. Typing swiftly. Why? Trying to finish each thought before the power fails. We’ll have an update on a dog named Lola, too — mentioned her last week. Keep reading. I’ll keep typing. 
Two things are certain when an icy storm hits North Texas: (1) Traffic will be dangerous. (2) Power will fail. 
We’re also getting “freezing fog” — had that during my two spells of Covid.
I will now type today’s report.
WBAP’s ace Weather Guy, meteorologist Brad Barton, described the early challenges as a “spray-paint coating” of ice on bridges and roads. Perfect description. At readlarrypowell.com, we believe ice isn’t safe except in a glass of tea.
That’s Porche’s Monday morning ice storm face. She told me this morning, “Yeah, some of you jerk humans might say I’m only a dog, but you’ll never catch me trying to drive on ice.” 
That also is her playful “This weather is fouling up my outdoor schedule” face. It’s also her “Frozen Fog Face.” She laughed when she barked that.
Here we go with some items spotted on Facebook and from other sources…
RAMSES NEEDS A HOME;
CAT IN STORE NEEDS ESCAPE
While scrolling Facebook over the weekend, I ran across a post by Norah Al-Abdullah on the DFW Cat Rescue Network HERE. AND THIS LINK TO NORAH’S FACEBOOK PAGE  is how to contact her about this cat Ramses. According to Norah’s online report, “My husband is very allergic to her and she needs to go to a new loving home. We had short hair cats before, but never had a long haired cat. We were not aware that his allergies would flare since they never have before. I didn’t want to share my reasons for rehoming before because I don’t want the judgement. I’m hoping me being open about it helps get her a new loving home.”
 Ramses, according to the bio, will be a year old on Feb. 12, is “up to date on shots” is spayed, “used to having someone home with her 24/7,” may be “too rough” for small kids, is “very playful and active, “not used to other pets,” loves cheddar cheese, chicken hearts, chicken livers and chicken gizzards, likes going outside on her leash and is used to wearing a harness.”

 And then there was a post from Amanda Nichols about a diluted calico cat -- no photo and you'll see why -- that had somehow found itself living inside a large, general purpose store in Cleburne. Amanda’s initial post read that the personnel in the store said “they don’t want to call animal control because they will sadly PTS her. … There are no rescues for cats, really, around here. She needs to be trapped. …eventually something bad is going to happen sadly. They don’t feed her, they said. The worker told me they will get fired if they do.” Amanda Nichols’ FACEBOOK LINK IS HERE. No photos because the cat was too quick in running for cover in the store.
[LARRY ASIDE: No additional info is posted. But you see in the Cleburne cat tale the conflict between good hearts trying to save animals and the traditional Texas theory of dealing with animal issues: “Got a problem? Let’s kill it.” Anybody who can update us on Ramses and on the Store Cat, let us know by emailing me at [email protected].]
THE FACES OF HANNAH:
A RURAL SHELTER DOG…
Yep, this dog is way cute, to use a 21st century construction of expression. “Way cute.” “Way adoptable.” “Way on the clock.”
And, yes, Hannah the Dog is being way supported by the way determined 4-Legged Helpers that focus on animals waiting without attention in small shelters in the DallasFort Worth area. Hannah is described by The Helpers as a Lab/Beagle/Kelpie Mix who is currently in the Ferris Animal Shelter on the southern side of Dallas. 
Her bio reads, “Hannah is just the cutest thing ever!!! She was found out and about in Hutchins and she is only about 7 months old so just a pup. She is very sweet and incredibly loving.  Something incredibly cute about her?  We have never seen this before.  Ears down she has Beagle like ears.  Ears up they stand up like a Kelpie. SO ADORABLE. She is a very pretty and extremely sweet little girl. Please help save her.”
You can do that by calling of texting The 4-Legged Helpers at 214-949-2726 or emailing [email protected].
You can see more animals on The Helpers’ radar by going to the non-profit’s Facebook site HERE.  
[LARRY ASIDE: Just an FYI. “Hannah” is the name of my first grandchild, but I’d have supported adopting this dog even if her name had been Emily or Connor “Crash” Powell, the names of my second and third grandkids. Still, “Hannah” is the perfect palindrome for this dog just as “Hannah” is a perfect Powellindrome.”
CATCHING UP WITH LULU & KIDS:
HEATH THE BOY, LOLA THE SIS
Last week we wrote about a “family affair” at the Mesquite Animal Shelter. We know about Lulu and her son Heath and her daughter Lola thanks to biographer Judi Brown — she and Debra Chisholm are our reliable dog-writer sources at Mesquite Animal Services.

You can become the human who loves these dogs by using their ID numbers when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected].
[LARRY EXPLANATION:  Last week I could find TWO of the bios of these dogs but I’d somehow managed to delete Lola’s bio. It happens. Pretty sure I hit the wrong key at the wrong time. So, here’s the info to help get these dogs out of a city shelter and into a loving home or two or three. Bless the patient souls of Judi and Debra!]

We began the report on Lula this way: “Judi Brown, in her mission as volunteer dog biographer at Mesquite Animal Services, asks, ‘How can you look at this cute face and not fall in love? Lulu‘s personality fits her looks. She’s not only adorable but has the sweetest personality! She’s a 2- to 3-year old chestnut-colored low-rider terrier Pit that arrived on 1/19 as a stray. She weighs 45 pounds and is not spayed. She was brought in by a concerned citizen with what’s most likely her daughter Lola.
Heath was found running in the same neighborhood the week before. He is probably her son. All three had been running in the neighborhood for some time. You can see from the photos she has recently had a litter. She is timid. 
“When I first met her she was shaking. She flinches when you reach for her but at the same time she’s also very loving.” Lulu is #51905856 — use that ID when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected]. 
THIS SITTING DOG (left) and right (standing) is Heath [#51840683], the 9 1/2-month old, aforementioned, probable son of Lulu, brother of Lola. His bio reads, “Heath needs a patient, loving adopter that will understand it takes time for some dogs like Heath to build trust. BUT he is worth it!!  … Heath is a work in progress and has been a volunteer project. When he first came into the shelter he stayed at the back of his kennel with his head down. He also did not understand what the leash was all about. Now he comes out of his kennel willingly...even wagging his tail. …. There’s no doubt he wants to trust. He will need an adopter that is patient and understanding. In return you will get a very loyal devoted companion.”

And that brings us to this “work in progress,” the sister Lola. Judi writes, “Lola does not know what to make of the shelter and has not learned to build trust. She is very timid. She is a 9-month-old mixed breed, possibly hound mix, who weighs 45 pounds and arrived at the Mesquite Animal Shelter as a stray on 1/19. She is not spayed. She was brought in by Mesquite resident that found her and Lulu … running in the neighborhood. The week before, Lola‘s sibling Heath was brought in. He was also running in the same neighborhood. Apparently they had been loose for sometime. Lola has a lot of potential but is a work in progress. The volunteers and staff will give her TLC to help her build trust. She walks hesitantly on a leash and most likely will do better once she is more comfortable with her surroundings. … When I took her into the laundry room she basically froze. She’s so scared and needs so much loving and TLC.” [LARRY ASIDE: Some sad faces in this family. Cheer 'em up, people.]
Lola is #51905879. Use that ID number when you call the shelter at
at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected].
[LARRY ASIDE: And there you have it, the shared situation of three dogs a human once wanted but now doesn’t give a good danged hoot about. Surely someone would love to make these dogs happy through the simple act of giving them a loving home. Pass it on. Save ‘em all.]
CONTEMPLATIONS
ABOUT THE ANIMALS & OTHER NOTES

Well, my goodness. My ol’ colleague at The Big Paper Downtown, columnist Sharon Grigsby, told the story over the weekend of the end of a longtime agreement between the SPCA of Texas and the Dallas Police Department that they'd join forces in prosecuting alleged animal abusers. She wrote that the agreement ended Oct. 1 and nobody noticed. It’s an interesting story of a conflict with a big city government’s tightwaddedness and a non-profit’s desire to be “reimbursed” for the cost of expert testimony and evidence. Worth the read — here’s the LINK. …
Remember how hard animal people worked to get that big shelter built and how hard the animal people worked with the City of Dallas to right the ship when shelter management allowed a cat who escaped inside the shelter to die inside the shelter’s break-room wall? That was in 2010. Surely someone needs to remind the city that there’s a voting bloc of animal people who want to make sure there’s no backsliding in the effort to respect the animals that are betrayed by don’t care/so what residents of the area. Dallas could be the animal care leader for the whole danged state. If you live in Dallas and know who your city council member is, make your opinion known. Help guide the council members and you help the animals. If you have no idea who your councilmember or the mayor is, google the city's website. …
LARRY THEORY: As someone who began writing about animals long before the public had desktop computers (1977) and their 1983 world-wide linkup, I just want to declare that computers linked via the internet are the greatest advancement in animal rescue since the telephone. Until someone in a university lab invents and harnesses genuine ESP, we’ll have to make-do with cellphones that are simultaneously money-making cameras and communication devices. That is my Office Cat William Powell helping me and my nose edit a piece of fiction I’m working on about getting the Texas Legislature to OK the use of stun-guns by licensed Lone Star State Animal Rescuers. Can’t you imagine the ZZZTTT on the backside of a bad guy trying to train a dog to fight? Lawyers will make money and animals will be saved, right? I’m kidding. I’m kidding. That wold be wrong, but it would feel so right! I may need a rest. Brainwaves are wobbly.
—- Offer NFL betting advice or recipes by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] and put LAY OFF THE CHEESE, SLIM in the subject line. —-

A COMFORT OF CRITTERS -- WHEN SLEEPING AND NAPPING SUPPORT QUIET MOMENTS...

We dedicate this edition of Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap to a "collective." You've heard of a pack of dogs. Perhaps a flock of geese. A herd of cows. A consortium of politicians. An elevator of surprises?  A murder of crows. A clowder of cats? 
What we've got for this edition is a Comfort of Critters.
I'll explain. And our explantory examples will be veteran snoozers Porche Noel, Wendy, Stevie Ray, William Powell and Dudley the Angels.
These snoozers don't have to be piled up together, vis a vis (that correct usage?) a "pile of puppies" or a "cuddle of kittens" or a "snuggle of snakes," Wait, that last one, like a "hill of ants," may not be for everyone.
Here's the deal. On Friday morning I did something frequently done by people labeled "septuagenarian" -- I went to a lab to have blood drawn. Last test showed the Curse of Vegetarians -- low iron. This test showed not low iron. So, moving along with renewed energy (that's an iron joke)....
After the most painless blood draw right outta my left arm, I went home and sat down to watch TV and relax until I could write again -- based on my misguided plotlines, that'll be sometime in the 22nd century if a life-extending sand is found on Mars and my insurance will pay for the treatments.
As I relaxed, I contemplated things, i.e., (a) how to get more iron into my system without eating spinach by the barrel; (b) how to rejuvenate my metabolism without enduring astronaut training in a tight aluminum foil make-believe space suit. I sat in my rockin'spouse Martha's 2nd favorite recliner and watched TV without also reading a book or a newspaper.
As I looked around the room I realized it was very quiet. Except for the TV -- had it on only about "half-loud." 
What I saw in the living room was "A Comfort of Critters." An emotionally pleasing vision of dear friends happily snoozing.
To my left (top photo) there was that big lump of short-haired canine, the formerly wandering dog Porche Noel (found on the porch at Christmas). She owns the leopard-patterned couch cover. 
Immediately in front of me was Wendy, i.e., Wednesday Louise Wagstaff Arden. As you can tell from that photo, I'd been watching old family reunion videos and Wendy had been looking away when she nodded off while in an impressive sit-up-dog-snooze position. [LARRY ASIDE: Kidding about the family reunion videos -- above Wendy that's a scene from Men in Black -- happened to be on TV when I snapped the shutter. Or snapped the shudder.]
The two cats? The black and white cat is former Apprentice Office Cat Stevie Ray and the other cat is William Powell, my senior office cat. William has been Stevie Ray's guiding force ever since I rescued the little guy from a mimosa tree and handed him over to William in his preferred room at our former 

residence. William taught him well -- one of the earliest lessons was how to claim the back of a couch. Stevie Ray and William continue to bunk together and purr. 
 So, that took care of the calm and purrful atmosphere immediately in front of me
Then, I turned to the left to get my phone off the reading table and there, just on the other side of the doorway, was our big ol' Border Collie/Lab mix Dudley the Angel. He was sleeping in his "waiting place." When Martha leaves for work, Dudley stakes out a spot in the front hallway and decides to sleep and wait until either she's back home or I get up and walk into the kitchen. He loves to hear the icebox open. (I slipped into pre-war lingo there with "icebox." Why? Because "refrigerator" is a long word that slows the pace of presentation. Wait. "Presentation" is a long word, too. I'll figure it out later.
And when you're living in a house blessed with a Comfort of Critters, you don't need words that are longer than a big dog's snore. "Treat" is an appropriate short word for life with dogs and cats.
[DEAR READERS: Please send photos of your slumbering dogs and/or napping cats or any other snoozing beloved critter to [email protected] and readlarrypowell.com will proudly post the photos and their stories in our long-running weekend feature Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. You'll be influencing people to consider opening their hearts and homes to an animal who becomes a member of the family. You'll also be helping insomniacs to believe they, too, can get some sleep if they can just stretch out and balance on the back of a modern living room couch.]

--- Offer snooze advice or any rock-solid lotto tips by clicking on 'comment' below or by emailing [email protected] and link to your favorite lullaby from the late 1960s. ---

TOUGH EVERMAN CASE; ASSORTED ANIMALS AVAILABLE; CONTEMPLATING SNOW, WOLVES, A ROOSTER

EDITION OF FRIDAY, JAN. 27, 2023 [PetPowellPress] We’re approaching the final weekend of January 2023 — and here’s the confession: I have no chance in the world of re-organizing my office before Groundhog Day next week. In Contemplations we’ll discuss snow, wolves and solve the mystery chicken of “The Indoor Flameless Marshmallow Rooster.”
EVERMAN SHELTER
HAS A TOUGH CASE
The photos are tough enough for a human to look at —how tough it must be for this dog to live with these things. We got the note from our reliable Everman tipster Heather Harrison. It paints a rough picture for this dog — but humans can help.
 We’ll start with the unpleasant photos.
The note reads, “”The Everman shelter is beyond capacity; they have nowhere for a medical needs dog!”
This boy is 2 years old — “breed unknown at this time. Severe mange cracked & bleeding.  Swollen feet. Prolapsed anus.
 Despite his severe discomfort, he is the sweetest boy!  Just wants some love. This li'l fella was found alongside the interstate with a water bowl, as if he had been dumped there.”
To offer to help him call Everman’s ACO at 817-561-5495.
And this final photo shows that the shelter is really trying to help this boy find a good place to live a happy life. You can see his face a little better as the horrid “crust” of a life of neglect has been treated.
[LARRY ASIDE: No idea who let this dog get into this shape. But, Someone knows, not that I’m judging.]
MEANWHILE IN MESQUITE
IT’S A FAMILY AFFAIR…
Judi Brown, in her mission as volunteer dog biographer at Mesquite Animal Services, asks, “How can you look at this cute face and not fall in love? Lulu‘s personality fits her looks. She’s not only adorable but has the sweetest personality! She’s a 2- to 3-year old chestnut-colored low-rider terrier Pit that arrived on 1/19 as a stray. She weighs 45 pounds and is not spayed. 
“She was brought in by a concerned citizen with what’s most likely her daughter Lola. Heath was found running in the same neighborhood the week before. He is probably her son. All three had been running in the neighborhood for some time. You can see from the photos she has recently had a litter. She is timid.

“When I first met her she was shaking. She flinches when you reach for her but at the same time she’s also very loving. As soon as I sat down she came to me and put her paws on my lap. She sits for treats and takes them gently. She was not interested in playing with toys or balls. She’s attentive and stays close. She definitely wants a human companion for a friend.  She’s calm, well mannered, sweet, and friendly… She walks very well on a leash. She was intimidated by other dogs. She would like nothing better than to be considered a loving member of your family.”

Lulu is #51905856 — use that ID when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected]. 
That sitting dog is 9-1/2-month old Heath (#51840683) — the aforementioned "probably" son of Lulu. We’re still trying to discover if Lola has been adopted or rescued. You can see more Mesquite animals by clicking on this link.
ON THE EDGE OF DALLAS,
THERE’S A FULL SHELTER
The note from our pals at 4-Legged Helpers opens with “SHELTER FULL!” and refers to the Ferris facility on the southern side of Dallas. It not only take in Ferris animals, but Hutchins animals and others and animals that turn up in the rural and semi-rural area. 
The helpers reports that “at these rural shelters” the animals “are most often not seen by anyone other than the shelter
staff. Please, you truly save a life if you help any dog pictured! The tiny rural shelters have zero walk-ins ... and these postings are often the only chance these sweet pets have to be rescued/saved.” 
The contact points are call or text 4-Legged Helpers at 214-949-2726 or email cat_ girl_ [email protected]. Remember you can follow 4-Legged Helpers Inc. on FACEBOOK HERE.
That first guy is Brady, who we’ve mentioned before. He’s described as a Lab/Bulldog mix who likes to play with the rope toy. He’s about 1 1/2-years old and “adores people and all other dogs.” He’s the “absolute sweetest, cuddly, marshmallow pup you could meet.” You may remember him from his Christmas photo. And there’s this:
He is silly and sweet and would be the most perfect hiking or running or tv watching companion.  Ready to go anywhere or do anything.  Carries around the rope toy ready for fun.  ADORES RIDING IN THE CAR.”
That brings us to Mason (fawn) and Monroe, a pair of Staffie Terriers “found out and about together and they are absolutely adorable. They seem to love each other as well as every single person they meet and are able to easily be walked by other dogs.  They are precious pups that just want love and affection.  SO VERY CUTE!  They look like short and stout little Hippos. The black dog is female and we named her Monroe.  The fawn dog is male and we named him Mason.   GREAT DOGS!!! Please, help save them!”
AH, THE GREAT LIFE
OF A DALLAS CAT…
We suspect that this cat Pepper has been living a good life lately. May have been living one all along. As you probably know, readlarrypowell.com is a fan of cats. Fan of dogs, too. So we try to help dogs and cats find a home.
We spotted this cat on the Dallas Animal Services adoptables pages Thursday as we checked out the DAS website at https://bedallas90.org. (Go there, click on ADOPT and then VIEW PETS and you can navigate you way through dogs and cats.)
If you go HERE  it’ll take you right to Pepper’s bio where the photo absolutely announces “Relaxed cat!”. The bio surprised me: Pepper (#A11567004) is a 19-year-old, 18-pound cat. [LARRY ASIDE: He looks much younger — makes me vow to take better care of myself and get more naps.]

His bio read, “You haven’t lived until you’ve smelled catnip”, adds, “I hog the bed. I admit it! But honestly, that just means we can snuggle closer, right?” and closes with “I never lose at catch-the-laser-dot. Don’t believe me? Click that ‘Adopt Me’ button and I’ll prove it!” [LARRY ASIDE: No idea how a 19-year-old, 20-pound cat winds up in a city shelter, but the fact that he’s in a foster home suggests that Pepper is a charmer and needs that legendary “forever home.”]
CONTEMPLATIONS
SNOW, THE ‘ROOSTER” AND WOLVES
We have a report from our Eastern Seaboard Bureau Chief Andy Fisher who almost makes the snowstorm that hit the Indian Lake community in Denville, N.J., seem like a Northeast Texas snowstorm of my own childhood. Here today, gone tomorrow and maybe (rarely) one lousy snow day out of school.
 Andy, the veteran print and broadcast journalist, noting that as he typed the report Denville’s temp was 43 while Fort Worth’s temp was a chilling 34. Andy wrote, “Nature is standing on her head again!”
 Then he added, “Not only that, but here yesterday, there was enough snow to build a little snowman for Waylon -- but this morning, there's none at all! What a difference 18 hours -- and two inches of rain -- can make! On the left, 2PM Wednesday; on the right, 8 this morning. Photos taken from the same spot…” 
The other photo? The taller kid in the winter gear is the CEO of the Eastern Seaboard Bureau Annie Fisher. Hubby Andy says that it was “indeed the the lovely Annie who built the snowman for her granddaughter.” Yes, that is young Waylon who helped celebrate the snowman. And Andy took the “before and after” weather photos, then says, “The good picture is by Waylon’ mom, Celina Meehan.”  (Click on the photos to make 'em larger.)
EARLIER THIS WEEK on a neighborhood bulletin board for North Richland Hills, there was this notice: “WOLVES just ran down Lake Meadows & Lake Side Circle heading towards Ruff Snow then they turned down Lariat Trail. KEEP your PETS inside ASAP!!!” Relax, animalfans. Upon further review a rewrite was issued noting that the “wolves” were really just “coyotes.” The last sentence of the note, “KEEP YOUR PETS INSIDE ASAP!!!” holds firm. That common sense in a land where coyotes, bobcats, foxes, hawks and other predators are looking for a quick wintertime snack. We're lucky we don't have bear caves -- that we know of -- yet. …
On Thursday, I opened my inbox and read a subject line this way “The Indoor Flameless Marshmallow Rooster and More…” I thought, “Clever! Someone has designed a marshmallow rooster you can heat-and-eat!” Then I looked again and the line actually read “Flameless Marshmallow Roaster.” One little letter changed the whole meaning. And that, kids, is why you need to learn how to spell, learn where commas go and learn how Mr. Subject and Mr. Verb work together. This little mistakes are why we all have lawyers on retainer. If you don't pay attention to the little details, you'll look as stupid as a guy looking at “roaster” and seeing “Rooster.” Advice from a longtime etidur.… Er, editor. What? Who’s that? Different Rooster.
— Offer brainy remarks by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] and put READ TRUE GRIT in the subject line. —-

THE ENERGY CHALLENGE IN ANIMAL RESCUE -- A WEARY HEART THING; SPCA'S STRUT YOUR MUTT EVENTS AND SPCA ANIMALS

EDITION OF THURSDAY, JAN. 26, 2022 [PetPowellPress] One of the great challenges of certain scientific fields has been inventing a “perpetual motion machine.” readlarrypowell.com has a suggestion: Model it after the hearts of animal rescuers and advocates. Those people keep on goin’.
And we've got some "re-runs" to help make the "constant pressure point."

It’s not always easy on the heart. The challenges are many and so are the animals that are dumped, surrendered, ignored, abused, unloved, bark-too-much, don’t-fit-the-apartment, are just for breeding, etc .

So many of these ill-treated animals wind up in taxpayer-supported shelters and that means they’re always on the clock and the needle’s ready. It’s the ol’ Texas animal control philosophy: “Got a problem? Let’s kill it.” 

No city or county government should ever see these dogs and cats as “a problem.” The problem is the people who mistreat them and also expect the city to “git rid uh her. She just keeps having litters.” See? People. That’s the challenge. “He won’t quit barkin’ — ah thank he wants tuh come into the house.” Yeah, that happens, too.
 Small towns rarely put enough money into a shelter budget for a marketing campaign that’ll get animals adopted. Easier to just euthanize them. [God bless the larger towns with strong volunteer programs!]
Volunteer animal rescuers/fosters/transporters, etc. That’s the backbone of these life-saving, animal-protecting organizations.
Ah, yes, I’m preachin’ to the choir again. You worn-to-a-frazzle rescuers and frustrated advocates know this sermon. Pass it on to people who don’t. Remind an elected official to get into the save-the-animals movement.
You see here photos we’ve published recently. These dogs are in the Ferris Animal Shelter, a small facility with a small staff. The 4-Legged Helpers work with it to help animals that get virtually no visits from potential adoptors or even people looking for their lost animals.
Ferris also takes in animals from other small cities — that extends the lifetime of some animals coming from quick-needle cities. 
The challenge is creating enough good human energy to outlast the so-what/don’t care energy of the humans who can only be described as embarrassingly heartless.

The 4Legged Helpers can use some help. Ask about these dogs by calling or texting 214-949-2726 or emailing [email protected]. You can also ask about helping the Helpers by fostering, transporting, etc. Help the Helpers = Helping the Animals. Jayson is that dog with the great eye makeup and Waylon is the other dog. Go to the 4-legged Helpers FACEBOOK page HERE to read about them and other dogs on the clock and needing a human to help them.
COINCIDENTALLY:
ABOUT
 BARKING DOGS

As I was scrolling Facebook Wednesday, looking for something I’d lost, I ran across this post by Jill Vander Velde Fuller. It highlighted a dog from Mesquite Animal Services.
The first few lines got right to me: “Owner Surrender / euthanized request. Reason: too noisy. Urgent rescue help is needed.” I’m hoping that’s already been worked out. The info is Aris is #A0051933727, a 3-year-old male Shepherd/Husky mix who “is up to date on Rabies and has been neutered. His owner surrendered him to a Full Capacity Shelter because he made ‘too much noise.’ Aris will not thrive in the shelter. Aris seems to have little manners, and it is clear that he has yet to be trained. Who will rescue this boy and allow him to grow and thrive as he deserves? Email [email protected]." 

This is not an unusual situation in animal shelters. People adopt an animal when they shouldn't have and the animal winds up on death row when patience runs thin. People mistake. Or, sometimes the philosophy, "It's only a dog. I'll get another one."
SPCA’S STRUT YOUR MUTT
APRIL 15 IN FAIR PARK, PLUS
MAY 13 IN WAXAHACHIE
Keep reading. We’ll explain.
But, first, that Dallas date rings a bell, but my brain is so taxed these days…. Moving along, we’re very happy to report that The SPCA of Texas has put its 18th Annual Strut Your Mutt, The Race To End Animal Cruelty, on the calendar for Saturday, April 15, at Fair Park in Dallas.
Registration on Strutday begins at 7 a.m. at Big Tex Circle in Fair Park — there’s a 3K fun walk, a 4K timed race — the 4K begins at 8 a.m., the fun walk at 8:15 a.m. Race registration is $40, the walk is $35, kids 11 and under are free. There’s this, too: “Participants can register individually or as a team at gostrut.org, and will receive a goody bag filled with a Strut T-shirt, pet bandana, dog toy and dog treats. An Early Bird Special—$5 off registration—runs Jan. 23 – 26, 2023.  
BUT WAIT! THERE’S EVEN MORE!!! HELLO, ELLIS COUNTY! The SPCA also announced the 1st Annual Strut Your Mutt… 3K fun walk in Ellis County (where there’s an SPCA facility) will be May 13 at Getzendaner Memorial Park in Waxahachie — registration at 8 a.m., walk at 9 a.m.
At spca.org, you can learn more about these events and, if you don’t have a mutt to strut, you can find a new best friend or an amewsing conversationalist for your home.
The pose-and-roll-in-the-grass dog Apollo is still on the adoptables list at SPCA.
And, we’ve spotted a dog with fascinating eyes who is also available. That is Aster, a nearly year-and-a-half-old Catahoula Leopard Dog mix who weighs in at 54 pounds. He’s said to be “sweet but shy” and needs “a little bit of time to get to know you” but once he does, his bio reads, “I will be your best friend.”
You can also find friends of the feline variety at the SPCA and perhaps there is no better-dressed cat in Dallas County than this guy Oscar, a 6-pound, 2-years & 1 month-old Domestic Shorthair mix currently in SPCA foster care. Clearly, he knows how to dress. And, he sort of has a look that says, “I’m not a Mutt Strutter, I’m a lap-sitter or, if it pleases, a lay-about wearing a bowtie as if I host a retro 1950s TV quiz show called I’ve Got a Cat Secret.” Remember see more animals and more details on Strut Your Mutt at spca.org.
CONTEMPLATIONS

Nothing in particular
As I was typing this I was able to look out the office window on Tuesday and see cold rain falling, My first thought was not “That’ll make me have to get my mower tuned up” but “I’ll never get these layabout dogs to go out today.” I don’t know what people did to get their indoor dogs out in bad weather before the invention of the weather radar! Timing — it’s the key to everything. …
Regarding our opening today: Does any rescuer/advocate/activist have a method of revitalizing when the batteries start wearing down? Serious question. I’ve been writing about animals for a long time and have talked to a lot of animal people who seem to always have “fresh batteries.” But, sometimes the mission can get downright overwhelming and consuming of your lifeforce. …
My dog Porche is out like a light next to my chair. Wendy and Dudley are dog-napping in the living room. What is significant about this? Our letter carrier came to our porch twice today and they didn’t bark their usual “intruder” alarms. He may be wearing the famed USPS Wintertime Sneaky Sneakers.
—- Offer advice and support by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected]. —-

COPING WITH PASADENA TORNADO; ASSORTED METROPLEX ANIMALS NEEDING HOMES

EDITION OF TUESDAY/WEDNESDAY JAN. 24-25, 2023 [PetPowellPress]  Just as we were about to post this edition, we got a report from the Houston area about an animal shelter in Pasadena beings truck by a tornado. 
Our tip came from our Dallas pal and animal advocate Kimberly Jones who linked to a note from Estelle Mack who'd linked to the Facebook page of Cypress Lucky Mutt Rescue. The note from Estelle began, "SOS Pasadena Animal shelter was hit by a tornado today... The animals need help now! 150 are impacted and some are injured."
Cypress Lucky Mutt Rescue posted this photo and identified the twisted building as the Pasadena Animal Shelter.
We're so early in this crisis (5:45 p.m. our time) that organizing rescues and evacuations of people and animals is in the very challenging stages of discovering where to go and how to get there. The note also reads, "If you can help, please email  [email protected]." The note says the rescuers will need kennels and crates, but there's no clear way to deliver them as darkness arrives in the Houston area .  [LARRY SUGGESTION: Get in touch with someone you know in animal rescue in Houston or keep googling Pasasdena Animal Shelter to see what pops up.]
INTRODUCING BEN: TOO

CUTE FOR JUST ONE PHOTO
Goodness gracious, when I saw this dog’s pictures I understood why there were three of them. Too much cute for just one frame.
His name is Ben and he’s a “GSP Pocket Mix,” according to our critter-saving pals at 4 Legged helpers. GSP? German Shepherd Pointer. Read on! Ben’s a Wilmer dog now in the care of the Ferris Animal Shelter, the Helpers report.
Ben is described as “Incredibly cute!” And his bio continues, “Look at the long ears and short little legs.  Beyond cute!! Very sweet loving little guy. Cutest little thing ever. We are serious.  He is precious!  Interestingly he has German Shorthair Pointer markings (and even the long ears) but he is tiny compared to the usual size of these dogs.   Whatever he is you could not find a cuter or sweeter little guy.  Around 25 pounds.” [LARRY ASIDE: Anybody else think those front legs look like there might be a Bassett in the family tree?]

To offer to help Ben, call or text 4-Legged Helpers at 214-949-2726 or email [email protected].
You can see more animals 4-Legged Helpers is trying to get out of small, low-traffic Dallas-area shelters by going to the non- profit’s Facebook page HERE.
That is where you’ll find all the info about these two faces — two very distinct and loveable faces, also in the Ferris Animal Shelter. 
That pup with the great artistic highlights on his face is young Retriever mix Jayson. He came into the shelter as a stray. 
The Bulldog-type with the great eyes is Waylon, a middle-aged, 56-pound pup who was found as a stray, then released to the shelter by the owner who couldn’t take care of him. He came in with a bad laceration under his ear. His bio reads, “ Unknown how it occurred but despite having this bad injury that required stitches, you could not meet a sweater, more gentle, or more loving dog. CUDDLY. Honestly the perfect dog for any home. Everyone that works at the shelter and vet office ADORES him.”
A COUPLE OF BIG DOGS
WAITING IN MESQUITE
Oh, my, if you’ve ever lived with a big ol’ dog, the urge to reach into these pictures and magically hug these babies is intense. Or, you could just go to the Mesquite Animal Services Shelter and adopt one or two of ‘em. I can’t — we’re at the limit — but I can sure daydream and preach the gospel of Big Ol’ Dawgs.
Our tipster Debra Chisholm, volunteer dog biographer at Mesquite’s shelter, says Lucille is a “Terrier/Dogo Argentino mix that was surrendered to the Mesquite Animal Shelter.  Lucille was adopted from the shelter as a 4-month-old pup on 10/7/22 and returned on 1/19/23, now 7 months old.  Reason given for the surrender is that the owner is moving.  
“Lucille weighs 53 pounds and is spayed.  She appears to have been well-cared for.  She is one spunky, happy-go-lucky, tail-wagging youngster.  Lucille is playful, ran and played in the yard, loves chasing balls and will return them and climbed on our play equipment.  She is confident and outgoing.  … She takes treats gently and will sit for them. Lucille has lots of energy and will require an active person or family that will provide daily playtime, exercise and some obedience training would be great in helping her fit in better with her new people.  She is friendly and welcomes loving attention from human companions. …  Please help precious pup on the way out of the front door by networking or tagging at [email protected], typing in the subject line TAG, ID 51234724.  Questions?  They can be directed to 972-216-6283 or [email protected]."

Debra explained the system perfectly: Use the ID when you call or write.
Same thing goes for this girl Sasha — we’re opening with a photo we’ll call “Sasha & Her Shadow.” 
She’s a German Shepherd who came in as a stray on the 19th. She’s about 7 years old, is spayed and weighs 65 pounds. Debra writes, “She has a sweet and pleasant personality and has a moderate activity level. While she is well-behaved, she will occasionally jump on you so that will need to be addressed.  She is a calm and gentle girl.  She likes treats, will sit for them and takes them gently.  She is amiable and is a-ok with being lovingly handled and petted.  Sasha walks quite well on a leash and did not display aggression toward the other dogs she walked past, even those barking at her. …  She was quite fascinated with all the interesting smells in the yard and spent a fair amount of time with her nose to the ground.” Sasha is #51902773. Remember use that ID for her when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected].
Remember, you can see more Mesquite dogs and cats by clicking on this SHELTER LINK,
CONTEMPLATIONS
LOTTO AND OTHER THINGS
In Monday’s edition, readlarrypowell.com asked if we’d have any “Stock Show Weather” this year. The answer arrived Tuesday in the greater Dallas/Fort Worth area.
Let’s try this question and see if I get a Lotto answer that is as positive and swift as the answer as I got on the weather: Will I win Lotto Texas Wednesday night? That is our cat Esme, a formerly feral kitten (born 2012), explaining, as she lounged in my lap, that if either I or my born-to-be-richspouse Martha wins Lotto Texas, it will turn Esme’s life upside down in a good way! Great eyes, aren’t they! Yeah, she’s watching ERCOT, too. Cats don’t like power failures. That may be noted in the White House Energy Top Secret Feline Survey Folder. Not sure where that folder was left — it’s not in the glovebox in my ’99 Ford pickup.
So, the questions on the floor are “Will I win Lotto Texas Wednesday night”? and will Fate answer that question as quickly as it answered “Will we have any ‘Stock Show Weather’ this week?” 
I’ll let you know what happens with my "lucky numbers" — either a discreet note declaring “Rats! State got my five bucks again” on this website or you’ll look up to see a lighted blimp with the message “SEE YA!” sailing from the I-20/I-30 merge west of Fort Wroth east on I-30 to Royce City east of the metro sprawl. The blimp pilots like the restrooms at Buc-ees where, I think there’s a mooring faciliity. Oh, I’m kidding. If I win Lotto Texas this week, the next sentence you read will end as abruptly as a Cowboys’ seas …
i hope you smiled at that abrubt ending to the word “season.”.
I have no ideas for a song noting cold and wet weather in January. And I don’t want to link to any Christmas music. So, how about this song —forgive me for any commercial that precedes the performance. Surf’s up HERE.
—- Offer surf tips or novel ideas by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] and put PULL UP YOUR BAGGIES, SURFER SLIM in the subject line. —-

 

WORLD OF ANIMALS TO COPE WITH -- NO NEED TO MENTION THE COWBOYS...

EDITION OF TUESDAY/WEDNESDAY, JAN. 23-24, 2024 [PetPowellPress] As the world turns and we move on to worrying about Texas Rangers pitching rather than Dallas Cowboys passing, we consider individuals who can actually be helped!
We ran across some of these via email and others by scrolling Facebook. There are more animals in need around here than there are moping Cowboys fans — so, yes, there are a LOT of animals in need.
SO WE SPOTTED THIS CAT
ON THE ‘DALLAS CAT LADY’ SITE
That’s the photo of HamHands that was posted with this text.
“HamHands is one in a million! DOB 08/01/21 - HamHands is a one-eyed, polydactyl, Flame Point Siamese mix! He's a good boy, but the boss of you! He LOVES a window perch. He's the nosey neighbor you didn't know you needed or wanted. He can be aloof at first to keep you on your toes, but secretly loves to be held and have his chin scratched. He likes his crunchy food in a glass or metal bowl...no plastic for Mr. Fancy Pants - LOL! He is not a fan of young kids or other animals. He just wants a home where he is the center of your universe!” To ask about adopting him, email [email protected]. There are rules: “You must be over 25 to adopt with proof of ID. Adoption fee is $150 and helps cover care and vetting done.” Link up to the Dallas Cat Lady HERE.
THEN THERE ARE PUPS
IN NEED OF FOSTERS
This notice we found on the DFW’s FurGotten Friends Facebook page HERE.
We’ve been writing about this organization for years — consistently keeps its eye on the mission of saving the animals. In this case, spotted over the weekend, DFW’s FurGotten Friends is looking for fosters for puppies. And that is Puppy #6.
The appeal read, “We still want to help this litter of puppies but we can’t without fosters. Please consider fostering. It’s so rewarding! This family is not in a safe place. They are able to go in and out of their fence. They could be hurt or hit by a car! Please consider 2 or 3. Message us if you can help.” Here’s the email address: [email protected] The website is HERE.
https://dfwfgf.org/
HELPERS DETERMINED TO SAVE
ANIMALS IN SMALL SHELTERS…
That’s the mission and Laura Macias and her colleagues at 4-Legged Helpers keep hustling to make sure the animals in low-traffic facilities have advocates whose mission is to save ‘em all.
This handsome dog with the golden eyes is Milo, a Retriever/Shepherd Mix who is in the Ferris Animal Shelter on the southern edge of Dallas. He is described as “only about 1 1/2 years old and weighs 54 pounds so he is a great ‘medium’ size.” 
And the “sweetest most lovable guy was found out and about with two other dogs in Hutchins.”
He is, his bio reads, “very sweet and loving!”

Milo joins the parade of roaming or unwanted dogs on the Helpers’ list we cited last week: Sloane the Belgian Malinois, Jayson the Retriever Mix, Waylon the Bulldog who was “released to the shelter” after being found as a stray, J.J. the Shepherd mix and Thomas, also a Shepherd mix.
To ask about helping any of them, call or text the Helpers at 214-949-2726 or email [email protected]. You can see their stories and read about other animals by going to the 4-Legged Helpers Facebook page HERE.
MEANWHILE IN MESQUITE,
BRUCE, HEATH & ABBY
Volunteer dog biographer Judi Brown provided the stories of her visits with three Mesquite Animal Shelter dogs who are available for the right homes.
She began Bruce’s biography this way: “If Bruce looks sad it’s probably because he is. When he first came in he had a nasal discharge and has been in isolation on medication. He is now done with his medication and is waiting for you to come and give him a loving home! Bruce is a 3-year-old, 51-pound Apricot and white terrier Pit who arrived at the Mesquite Animal Shelter on 1/2 as a stray. He is not fixed. 
“Bruce is a real sweetheart!!!. I think you can tell by looking at him that he is a good boy! He’s not quite sure of what to make of the loud noises at the shelter and is a little timid. He wants to please. He sits for treats and takes them gently. He was not interested in playing with balls or toys but you could teach him that. He’s very curious and explored the laundry room. He stayed close looking up at me with adoring eyes. He’s gentle, calm and laid-back.  When I sat down he came to me. He walks very well on the leash. He was not interested in meeting other dogs. … Since he is not rambunctious and is on the quiet side, he would most likely do best with a laid-back family that is willing to shower him with love. In return you will be loved back tenfold!”
 Bruce is #51796290 — use that ID number when you ask about him by calling the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected]. Same ID system for these other Mesquite animals.
Of this fellow Heath, Judi writes that he “needs a patient, loving adopter that will understand it takes time for some dogs like Heath to build trust. But he is worth it!! He is a 9-month-old, 39-pound hound mix (Harehound?) with beautiful coloring.” He’s #51840683 at the shelter.
Since Heath’s arrival on Jan. 9, a Heath sibling and his mom have been brought in, Judi reports. “They had all been wandering a neighborhood for some time. It was a scary experience for them! Heath is a work in progress and has been a volunteer project. When he first came into the shelter he stayed at the back of his kennel with his head down. He also did not understand what the leash was all about. Now he comes out of his kennel willingly...even wagging his tail. … With time and TLC he has even come to me! When he does so I scratch his ears. He seems to like that. There’s no doubt he wants to trust. He will need an adopter that is patient and understanding. In return you will get a very loyal devoted companion. Do you have time to come up and work with him? That would be greatly appreciated. In doing so you will probably fall in love with him.” Heath is #51840683.
About Abby (#51890311), Judi writes, “ ‘To know her is to love her’ is an expression that can be applied to Abby.” She’s a 2-year-old, 43-pound Pittie who arrived on the 17th as a un-spayed stray. “She is Hershey-colored and just as sweet as the chocolate. She is truly one of the sweetest dogs at our shelter! She sat patiently while I tied the scarf around her neck. Then she continued to stay so close that it was difficult to get photos of her. She obviously craves human interaction. She is very affectionate. She sits for treats and takes them gently. She was not interested in playing with toys or balls. She has recently had a litter. When I sat down she came to me trying to crawl on my lap. She’s definitely a lapdog wannabe. … She’s calm, obedient, loving, well-mannered, easy-going, and a people-pleaser. As gentle as she is she would most likely do well with a family with children. Look into her eyes and you can see that she is pleading with you to come and adopt her! She would like nothing better than to be sprawled out on the couch next to her new family!”
You can see more Mesquite animals — dogs and cats — by clicking on THIS LINK to the shelter’s adorable adoptables.
CONTEMPLATIONS
A BRAIN LOST IN SPACE
We’re having to cold-turkey off the Dallas Cowboys bandwagon. Can you cold-turkey off a wagon? Well, not really a problem for some of us. If the team isn’t going to change coaching philosophies and offensive personnel, well, I hope they enjoy moving north and playing in the Canadian Football League — only two teams with a slightly cowboy theme: the Calgary Stampeders and the Saskatchewan Roughriders. The small town of Nocatchbutaflag, Ontario, might have a warm environment for the NFL franchise. No telling how much you’d pay to park to watch the Nocatchbutaflag Cowboys could play football or hockey …

COMMENTARY: Borrowing from Sir Mix-a-Lot, “I like gas stoves and I cannot lie.” OK, I also like electric stoves. But I think gravy is made better when you’re cookin’ with gas, as the old-timers used to say. What about gas clothes dryers? Are they in the future? …. 

Too cold for ya? Maybe this song from sixty-six will help you cope. Click HERE.
— Offer warming tips or chill advice by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] and put LIVING IN THE PAST, ARE WE? in the subject line. —

TWO PIGS, SOME DOGS AND CATS AND PONDERING OUR TOP SECRET PAPERS...

EDITION OF MONDAY, JANUARY 23, 2023 [PetPowellPress] This is a Monday morning edition and if you have any interest in stories regarding, as they on the gridiron, the “pigskin,” we’re featuring two players from the porcine community -- neither is a Razorback. Neither is feral. Neither is running for office. Read on.
SHAMMIE, TUSKERTON:

TWO PIGS IN COWTOWN
And in an effort to help members of the porcine population, we’re citing a pair of pigs who arrived at Fort Worth Animal Care and Control on different paths. We learned of them via longtime Fort Worth animal advocate and tipster Ginger Leach on her Facebook page.
First fellow is Shammie (#51909571). He came into the shelter as a stray. He is available “for pet only” —- that means nobody with a hunger for fresh pork should get in line to adopt Shammie. [LARRY DIET ADVICE: As a dedicated vegetarian, I urge you to change your ways -- save them all.] 
In fact, one person who posted a comment on the Shammie item wrote, “He is too friendly not to have belonged to someone. He came right up to the kennel door and let me rub his snout!”
 Shammie is at the Fort Worth Animal Care & Control’s Silcox Campus, 4900 Martin St., on the southeastern edge of the city.
This guy Tuskerton? Not a stray. Tuskerton (#5189088) is “in need of a new home,” the note reads. “He was surrendered for being ‘too much responsibility’.” [LARRY ASIDE: You hope this pig-dumper doesn’t have kids — One kid can prove to be more responsibility than a passel of pigs.]

Tuskerton is also a “pet-only pig” and he’s at the FWACC’s North Campus at 351 Hillshire Drive.
Don’t call about these or any other FW animals. Email [email protected].

[LARRY ASIDE: I never write about pigs without remember the time I interviewed Terry DeGaw, the late founder of the now-closed Serenity Springs Animal Sanctuary in Forestburg. I was doing a story about people dumping “little pigs” and “pocket pigs.” For the benefit of people who thought little pigs would always be little, Terry politely sighed and patiently declared, “It’s a PIG! THEY GROW!” Bless, Terry — she worked hard to save animals and enlighten people. May Shammie and Tuskerton find homes with people who understand pigs!]
AS LONG AS WE’RE OUT WEST:

SUZIE Q, CHEETO DUST, DOLLY PURRTON
This dog is one of those “longest resident” babies — a 4-year-old Hound mix named Suzie Q. She and these cats are in the care of the Humane Society of North Texas, headquartered in Fort Worth and operating at assorted sites around Tarrant County.

The story on Suzie Q begins with this comment directed to supporters of HSNT: “Y’all helped us find our previous longest resident Boe a home (he was with us over 600 days) and now Suzie Q wants the spotlight! 

“Suzie Q came into our care in October of 2021 (yes, that's over 400 days!!!) after her owner suddenly passed away. This 4-year-old Hound mix LOVES people and kids, but what's held her back from finding a home is that she is just not a fan of other animals (dogs or cats). If you can get past that, you'll find that this girl would be an AMAZING addition to your family! She's house-trained, she knows basic commands like sit and lay down. She loves to chase the ball and is a staff favorite for her lovable, goofy nature.

“An amazing supporter heard about how long Suzie Q has been here and donated the cost of her adoption fee, so currently Suzie Q is FREE to adopt! Bring her home today from our Hurst Adoption Center. If you can’t adopt, help us spread the word by sharing this post with your friends! Susie Q is #48864687...” 
[HSNT CONTACT INFO: See the list of adoptable dogs and cats and, also, locations of HSNT adoption sites at www.hsnt.org.]
LARRY FYI: There are also cats in the care of the Fort Worth-based Humane Society of North Texas. And this first one (above) is #51901280, a 3-year-old male Domestic Shorthair —large fellow who goes by the name "Cheeto Dust.” He’s at the HSNT location inside the PetSmart at 4465 Bryant Irving Road in Fort Worth.

The black cat with the great eyes is #51893518, a year-and-a-half old Domestic Shorthair mix of medium size known as Dolly Purrton. She’s in the Keller Regional Adoption Center’s Cat Room at 330 Rufe Snow Dr. in Keller. [LARRY ASIDE: Maybe you can help her learn to purr I Will Always Love You.]
A HANDSOME CLOUD
WAITS IN MESQUITE
[LARRY ASIDE: It has, since my earliest days of writing about animals, always amazed me and distressed me to realize that some of the most beautiful dogs and cats in the world wind up in a fix because their humans just don’t take proper care of them. This guy is an example. Of course, I've never met a dog or cat that wasn't beautiful. It's in the eyes and the soul.]
Thanks to volunteer Mesquite Animal Shelter dog biographer Judi Brown we have the appeal on behalf of Cloud, a year-old, 57-pound mix of fantastic breeds who came into the shelter on Friday the 13th as a stray. His family tree includes Golden Retriever, Lab and Pyrenees. [LARRY ASIDE: Three great loving, warm and adorable breeds in one dog. Stop the presses! How about that combo!!!]
Fortunately Judi has spent time with this guy and can tell us about him. She writes, “He is a delightful boy that will fit in well with an active family. When he got out into the yard he literally romped and frolicked back and forth. A good-size yard would be in order for this active boy. He was not interested in chasing a ball but he found toys on his own and entertained himself with them. It was fun to watch! He sits for treats when he wants to.
“He spent time exploring the yard but also spent a lot of time close to me. I admit part of it was because he liked having his ears scratched and wanted attention but also he’s highly motivated by treats and he knew that I had some in my pocket. This was an incentive for him to stay close. He’s a happy, outgoing, friendly guy. He’s also very alert. He wanted to know what was going on outside the shelter yard.
“He’s very affectionate. When I sat down he came to me wanting his ears scratched. He occasionally jumps on you when he gets excited so that would be something to keep in mind if you have young children. He has a semi-strong pull on a leash. … We always suggest you ask the shelter for a dog test if you have another dog. If you’re an active family that wants a fun-loving active dog, come meet Cloud. If you adopt him and he becomes a member of your family he will be on Cloud Nine and so will you!! 
Cloud is #51869629 — use that ID when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@cityofmes quite.com.

Remember, you can see more Mesquite adorable adoptables —canines and felines — by clicking HERE
And inexplicably in a civilization full of really smart people, this guy Duncan (#51688916) still hasn’t been adoped. He’s 9 months old, smallish, orange and white, spayed and came into the shelter on December 12 — he’s in the Conference Room at the shelter. Conpurring, you may recall from our previous item announcing that he is available to any loving home.
CONTEMPLATIONS
IDLE THOUGHTS FOR MONDAY AM
Will North Texas have any “Stock Show Weather” this year? That’s a reference to cold or wet or windy weather that arrives during the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo — it runs through Feb. 4 so we have plenty of time for a renegade cold front to lay down a coating of ice and snow though it might be nicer this year to just have a few days in the unexpected low-80s. Perhaps you’ll recall that the 2022 Stock Show began with cancellation of the opening downtown parade because of high winds, then drew to a close with genuinely wintry weather. At least nobody with the weather bureau is predicting more than a 87.6 percent chance of volcanic activity on any recently completed Dallas freeway resconstruction projects. …
Anybody else spend part of your weekend carefully checking packing boxes in your garage and closets for classified papers you forgot you had? I always clean out my old boxes when I begin to think I may have packed money and gift cards that I forgot I had. It’s the American Paranoia at work: If somebody’s not out to get me, I may be out to get my ownself! …

We celebrated my funspouse Martha’s birthday all weekend. I tell ya, teenagers can be a blast! She’s a hoot! 

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A QUESTION IN THE LAND OF INSOMNIA -- OVER OR UNDER? ASK OUR PAL LARRY

Our question for this edition of Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap is this: 
Over the covers or under the covers?
And that brings us to our featured canine, a fellow we’ve known for nearly a decade, Diane Combs’ miniature Dachshund, Larry.
[LARRY THE TYPIST ASIDE: Yes, he and I share a name — Diane wanted it that way. Also, she named a dog “Martha” in honor of my funspouse. We once named a freshly-found kitten Diane but one vet visit later the kitten was quickly renamed Simon. Seriously, who but a pro can Gender ID a freshly born kitten?]

Back to that photograph of the “blankie” with pawprints.
We have, at our house, only animals who sleep atop the covers. But at Diane’s, well, we need to discuss Larry, the Public Relations King of wherever he goes — you oughta see him working a dog park! You’d think he was up for election somewhere.
Now, look carefully at that photo of the “blankie.”  Here’s how Diane explains it: “He rarely sleeps when he's NOT under the covers, so one of these photos shows ‘Larry the Lump’ under the blankie on the couch.

“The other one is of him sleeping in his toy box -- so at least your readers can see what he looks like.”

[LARRY THE TYPIST ASIDE II: We’ve included a photo of Larry The PR King as he poses happily for the camera. Yes, he IS irresistible. Too handsome out from under the covers to be regarded as “Larry The Lump!]
[DEAR READERS: Please send us photos of your slumbering dogs and cats or any other critter that dozes off at your house. Tell us how you got ‘em and why you love ‘em and why they love you, too. Email photos and info to [email protected] and we’ll feature them in our weekend edition of Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. You’ll be helping someone decide to open their home to an animal. And you’ll be helping insomniacs wonder if they actually could sleep if they put a blanket OVER their heads. Tried it. Doesn’t work for me. Makes me think I’ve won the “victim” role in a pirate kidnap movie.]
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AS THE WEEK ENDS, THE WEEKEND HAS OPPORTUNITIES -- DOGS, CATS, KICKERS?

EDITION OF FRIDAY, JANUARY 20, 2022 [PetPowellPress] Welcome to Friday and remember this: We’re approaching a weekend that is merely TWO days long. So, show up for work on Monday, Unless you’ve had the foresight to schedule a day off to get over Sunday night’s Dallas Cowboys/San Francisco game. May Brett Maher have the opportunities to kick a dozen extra points and nail every one of them….
OK, we’re starting in East Texas, then moseying back into Dallas/Fort Worth in this edition — we’ll mention the “small shelter frustrations” that are tough to take on the southern edge of Dallas. Here goes.
THE STRAYDOG PEOPLE
AND A WEEKEND EVENT
Ok, we’re referring to the angels who run and support Straydog Inc. as “the Straydog People” because we see it as kind of a label of honor. Straydog Inc., the no-kill shelter and sanctuary in East Texas, has a legacy of love and triumph on behalf of animals. 
And there are many people who have adopted animals from this organization. You can see many to adopt on the shelter’s website at straydog.org. Or, you can see some of the adorable adoptables in person from 11 .m. to 3 p.m. Saturday at the PetSmart West Plano, Willow Bend, at 6204 W. Park Blvd. in Plano.
This big guy with all the personality in his face and tail and ear is Leonardo, a “brown/ chocolate” Lab/Mastiff Mix — he was “born in 2014 and he weighs 55 pounds,” his bio reads on the Straydog site. And, it adds, “He gets along well with other dogs. He would make a great dog for anyone who has the time and heart to give him the love he deserves.) Email [email protected].
This genuine Earhound is Ren, a Shepherd fellow born on in April 2019. He’s friendly, house-trained and, his bio reads, “a very energetic boy who loves to play ball and absolutely loves the water.  He gets along with other dogs.  He is a little anxious around new people, but once he gets to know you he is a big love bug.  His looks are very endearing with his unique ears.  He would make a great companion for long walks or runs.” Same email as the one for Leonardo ([email protected]) and this next adorable adoptable.
Yes, you might find a stray cat now and then at the stray dog shelter. This one is Krissy. Her colors are gray, blue and silver — might be some black in that great coat if the light hits everything right. This girl, the Straydog bio says, “was feral when we found her with 2 babies after her owner passed away.” Krissy isn’t much more than a kitten — her birthday is guessed at sometime in November 2021.
Since Straydog took her in, she’s weaned the babies “and has become more loveable,” the bio reads. “She has been getting used to people handling her.  She is very sweet but still needs more love.  She is looking for a loving home.  If you would like to adopt her please go to our website and fill out an application.” And, of course, email [email protected]. 
[LARRY RECOMMENDATION: Take some time to visit this link and learn about the founding of Straydog Inc. and the people who have built it and guided its evolution since founding in 1994. If you’re not moved by the 2003 entry and the “last words” of Pat Arnold, have yourself checked for tear ducts and a heartbeat.]
BIG CHALLENGE FOR SMALL SHELTERS?
MORE PAW TRAFFIC THAN FOOT TRAFFIC
In bright red leaders across the top of the latest email from 4-Legged Helpers, there was this message: NOW VERY URGENT!!! DALLAS-FORT WORTH TX RURAL SHELTERS URGENTLY NEED YOUR HELP!  It’s not a new message, but is from the heart. As it happens, the good folks at the Ferris Animal Shelter are loaded with animals. And the good folks with the 4-Legged Helpers are trying to get these dogs into a rescue, a foster or a home. Empty the shelter without using a needle, you know?
Any of you Dear Readers old enough to remember the TV show A Family Affair with Brian Keith, Sebastian Cabot. big sister Cissy (Kathy Garver) and 6-year-old twins Buffy (Anissa Jones) and Jody (Johnny Whitaker)?
Why do I ask that? Well, it’s because the first two pups — both in the Ferris Animal Shelter — listed on this desperate plea from 4-Legged Helpers are a brother and sister, Buffy and Jody, a couple of 6- to 8-week-old Heeler mixes. [LARRY ASIDE: I’m not sure which is the boy or which is Buffy, so, while we wait for a response from the puppies, my advice is you’d improve your life by giving a great home to a pair of siblings. Teach ‘em together. Love ‘em together. Show them that humans are better than our reputation for rotten behavior in the animal kingdom. We’ve never had sibling dogs, but we have had sibling cats and cats who were distant cousins, we’re pretty sure. Here’s an irrefutable fact: Human love makes the difference in animal lives.]
Also waiting a way into a good home is this dog Sloane, a Belgian Malinois, maybe a year-and-a-half old and in the Ferris shelter because she was “found out and about” in Hutchins. She’s a “not large” 41 pounds right now. and “what a sweetie,” her bio reads. 

Still waiting, also, are dogs previously mentioned: Jayson, Waylon, JJ and Thomas. You can see these pups (that’s Jayson with the great eye make up) on the 4-Legged Friends FACEBOOK PAGE HERE.
MEANWHILE IN MESQUITE,
SOME OF THE ‘WAITING’
Our tipster, volunteer dog-biographer Debra Chisholm, began with, “This happy-go-lucky fellow is Balto” and when i saw this photo I immediately recognized him as an Earhound — Happy Go Lucky Division of the Breed.
Debra says Balto is a mixed breed and the Dog Scanner app “suggests Husky, Kelpie and Terrier in the mix).” He came in on the 14th as a stray picked up by a police officer. He’s about 2 (could be “somewhat younger” and weighs 65 pounds. Also, Debra writes, “He is a handsome boy with the one blue/one brown eye distinction. He knows the sit command. He has lots of spunk and energy.  He is athletic and enjoys romping and running in the yard. …  He will need a secure and high fence as he is a bit of a jumper.  He saw a dog in the parking lot and apparently wanted to make friends, so jumped up on the wall ledge to get a better look!  He is a friendly boy and is happy to receive petting and attention from a human friend (when he manages to slow down!).  Balto would seem best suited for an active person or family who would spend time daily with him providing plenty of enrichment, exercise and playtime.
Balto is #51873061 — use that ID when you call the shelter at 927-216-6283 or email [email protected]. Same system for these other Mesquite animals.
Bulma (#51840990), possibly 6 or 7 years old, is 57-pound, not-spayed mixed breed — yep, arrived as a stray on Jan. 9. And then what happened? Debra reports, “Owners were contacted but have opted not to reclaim. This is very puzzling because she has such a sweet and fun personality.  She walks nicely on a leash and did not show any aggression toward the dogs she was led past who were barking at her.  Of course it is always a good idea to ask for a dog test from the shelter staff if interested in sweet girl.  She pottied in the yard so is possibly house trained.  Bulma knows the sit command.  She is a tail-wagging girl with a moderate energy level.  … Has a rather submissive personality.  She rolled over on her back for belly rubs.  Bulma is friendly and perfectly OK with receiving loving attention from a human companion.”
“Adorable and cutesy girl” Melo is, Debra reports, a Terrier mix who came into the shelter on January 6. Why? “She was abandoned by her owner and he has failed to reclaim her.  Melo [ID #51822147] weighs approx 35-40 pounds, is about 2 years old and is spayed.  She appears to be healthy and well-cared for. She's spunky and frisky without being hyperactive.  Melo is athletic and enjoyed climbing on our play equipment in the yard. She had such fun exploring all the smells of the yard and stretching her legs.  … Melo loved the attention I paid to her, especially scratching her on her hind quarters.  This pleasant-natured girl needs a new home and she would probably do best with an active person or family who would spend daily time playing, exercising and providing some training.  She is a nice compact size and would be perfect for someone looking for a smaller-sized dog to live inside.” (Remember, use her ID 51822147 when you contact the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected].
[LARRY FYI FROM SHELTER NOTES: This came with the Melo story: “Our shelter is very over-crowded and a number of our dogs are having to be housed in crates rather than regulation-sized kennels, Melo being one of them.” Adopting, fostering, rescuing can help resolve that situation. So can taking care of your own dogs in a safe and proper manner. But no need to preach that gospel in the Metroplex, right?]
This girl with the elegant appearance is Trudi (#51868126) who, Debra writes, is a Lab “youngster that was picked up by one of our officers and brought to the shelter on 1/13 as a stray.  Trudi weighs 58 pounds, is approx 1 year old and is not spayed.  This is a gentle soul, calm and a bit shy and timid.  I felt instantly drawn to her. 

“Trudi has a mellow and laid back personality and demeanor.  She is uneasy and nervous and has not acclimated to the new environment in which she finds herself. Trudi walks on a leash but is somewhat hesitant in doing so.  She did not have a negative reaction to any other dog she was walked past.  She likes treats and takes them gently.  Trudi is friendly and more than happy to receive loving attention.  Doubtless in a quiet home setting and with tender loving care she would blossom to her full potential.”
Remember, for any animal in Mesquite’s care, use the ID number when you contact the shelter at 972-216-6283 or by emailing [email protected].
Mesquite has plenty of dogs for good homes, plenty of cats, too. See them at THIS LINK.  Among the cats is this year-old girl Evelyn (#51801339). [LARRY ASIDE: She’s a very rare Domestic Shorthair Mix — I’m kidding about that. In fact, I’m almost certain Dallas/Fort Worth has more Domestic Shorthair mixes than any other geographical location in the known universe. We have always had great experiences with these cats (and other cats, too).] Evelyn came into the shelter on January 17, her size is listed as “medium” and her location when you get ready to visit her at the Mesquite shelter is in the Conference Room. (See Conferring Contemplation next.)
CONTEMPLATIONS
CAT CONFERRING AND OTHER NOTES
Regarding Evelyn in the Conference Room: It has been my experience that cats like to confer when given the opportunity and invitation from a loving human. Here’s one now — as I was writing the passage about Mesquite’s cat Evelyn, my own great feline, William Powell The Office Cat, stepped quietly onto my desk and went to sleep sitting up as I typed. He wasn’t conferring at the time, he was conpurring. I took it as a compliment. The same way I take it when my funspouse Martha falls asleep in the middle of one of my monologues about what’s wrong with journalism today or how computers give me more trouble than the curse of carbon paper ever did. …

LARRY FYI: We checked our records and when we moved 3 years ago, we left NO top secret documents behind or in storage. We also were way ahead of the federal government, hitting our debt ceiling years ago.
Friday morning I heard a radio newscaster report, “An extremely toxic site is Dallas is being demolished.” Immediately I wondered, “How did they narrow it down to just one?” Come on, Dallas, I’m just kiddin’ ya, Big Ol' D. When I was at The Big Paper Downtown, reporters did a lot of stories about toxic sites in Dallas. Some stories even mentioned city hall. (I hope you laughed at that line.)
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