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LET SLEEPING DOGS LIE & NAPPING CATS NAP -- WHAT IS THE OFFICE COMPANION MISSION!?

Looking back for a moment, I realized that I'm one of those lucky people who had a home office already in place before that lousy Pandemic hit and changed the way a whole bunch of people do things. 

Some people began working at home and then got an office dog or cat. I hope they still have them, but I fear a lot of people, once The Big Germ had mostly moved on, dropped the puzzled dogs and cats off at the nearest city shelter --or maybe the nearest park, grocery store alley or drove out into "the country," pulled over and shoved 'em out of the car and into a whole new puzzling hell.
 Thus we open this edition of our long-running feature "Let Sleeping dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. 
That clearly literary figure is my Senior Office Cat -- yes, it's the familiar face of my longtime pal, William Powell -- always helping the causes.
[LARRY ASIDE: If any of you guilt-stricken dog 'n' cat dumpers would like to confess, well, I'm not a priest but I have played one on stage -- The Rev. Dr. Harper in Arsenic & Old Lace at Theatre on The Hill in Cedar Hill. It's been a few years and I've aged into the role of "older clergyman." Yeah, animal dumpers, I'd be acting, but I'd still do my best to save your immortal soul -- just email the confession and I'll keep your identify a secret between me and THE Big Animal Creator who already knows your name, anyway. Pardon the sermon, but I love animals and I am concerned about people who harm them. Now, back to the topic: Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap.]
At our house, my office dogs and cats have long served purposes of inspiration and explanation. 
They offer "calm" reactions to unfortunate typing errors.
When a paragraph lacks luster, Senior Office Cat William Powell demonstrates a smooth example of how to reshape the paragraph without adding an Oxford Comma to the
needless punctuational murkiness of life.

To demonstrate their usual positions of readiness, I caught photographs of a junior cat and the dogs. 
That cat, on his Office Scratching Chair, is precious, adorable, literate Stevie Ray Treeboy. He is consistently concerned that treats will not be distributed to cats and dogs with equal enthusiasm.
I took the chair photos on Friday morning, then realized that our two older girls, the big dog
Wendy and the smaller dog Porche, had fallen asleep while reading some of my short stories. Pretty sure that's what put them to sleep. Might have been the treats they got after they had breakfast -- when I'm dieting, dogs and cats don't. It's a wonder they have any extra poundage at all. 
While the girls were together, our boy dog, the Border Collie Mix Dudley the Angel had nodded off on the other side of my chair -- the side where the treats are kept. He's a clever lad. 
[LARRY NOTE: That's Wendy's sleeping mug on the right and, below left, that's Porche Noel acting as if she heard someone open a plastic bag of cookies. She's legendarily alert. Can even diagram senteces. Wendy is proud of being able to decline verbs.]
So, with such a clever bunch of office aides, it's hard to believe that I have yet to sell Senior Office Cat William Powell's most recent novel, "CAT-SLAPPING PUCKS -- WINNING THE STANLEY CUP." It's a sequel to his baseball novel, "RUN UP THE WALL AND CATCH THE BALL" -- It's about a college-educated cat who makes it to the Big Leagues when he adds bunting and power-hitting to his strong gift of playing the outfield. This star goes by the name "Homer."

[DEAR READERS: Thank you for reading this far into this edition. ReadlarrypowellDOTcom (the computer won't let me use the actual "." for that address), anyway, RLPDOTCOM urges/begs you to email photos of your slumbering critters and their stories to [email protected]. We'll post them in our weekend feature, Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. We love to celebrate the adoration of animals. This edition is clear evidence of how the cats and dogs affect our existence. They inspire humans to make up tales of triumphant felines and canines for the sake of spending money.]

THE CHALLENGES OF A WEEKEND? RESCUE ANIMALS, ADOPT ANIMALS INTO GOOD HOMES, KEEP SMILING?

EDITION OF FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2024 [PetPowellPress] It’s a spring weekend, so we can figure that there’ll plenty of animal adoption opportunities throughout the metrosprawl.  No kiddin', right?
Thus, we’ll dedicate this edition to the people who save animals by finding new, loving homes for them.
Been going on a longtime in Dallas/Fort Worth. Supply of critters not only never runs out but never even runs low.
Mercifully, you animal people continue to work for the dogs and cats and other animals you love. It’s Good Friday, so we’ll just ask, “God, bless the animal nuts.” Don’t worry, folks, He knows who you are. After all, all dogs and cats go BACK to Heaven.
AN UPLIFTING TOOTH NOTE
FROM A TOUGH PUPPYDOG!
You remember this little guy Mooney, of course. Tough beginning and while he was sick with several ailments he was offered up as a free puppy on a neighborhood sit. Fortunately, veteran rescuer and animal advocate Kimberly Jones managed to take him out of the hands of disaster and get

him into the arms of an experienced animal caregiver, i.e., her own self!
That saved the guys life and, with the help of gofundme donations, got the ultra-cute Mooney into a solid recovered and repair medical system.
So, what’s the deal with that mugshot of Mooney on the bed? Kimberly sent this note with photos on Thursday: “He lost another baby tooth this morning!”
Apparently, he’s right on a healthy schedule now with his puppyhood.
Then, on Friday morning, Kimberly sent a video of Mooney romping with his big ol’ pal Apache The Dog. To see that entertaining video click on THIS LINK. 
You can stay caught up with this beats-the-odds dog Mooney by clicking onto his gofund.me site HERE and reading Kimberley’s updates on the little guy’s progress through puppyhood.. He’s a bit of a miracle dog — thanks to the determination of a the veteran dog rescuer who knows what it takes to beat the odds in the dog and cat world.
That photo on the left shows the little guy back in February. The romping video from yesterday may make you smile or inspire some tears of joy for the little guy.
THE OKLAHOMA DOGS &
THE OKLAHOMA ANGEL…
A couple of weeks ago we wrote about an four-dog rescue attempt — they’d been dumped somewhere along the side of big highway and were in danger.
We learned of this rescue attempt from the leading animal rescuer in way-out-west Oklahoma, our longtime tipster Terry Lynn Fisher of Burns Flat. [LARRY DIRECTIONS NOTE: The little town of Burns Flat is about 2 hours and 20 minutes north of Wichita Falls, Texas, and if you turn left at Burns Flat, you’re just over mile from the Texas Panhandle at Shamrock. If I read the map correctly. Sign me, Lost in Space Larry.]
Earlier in the week, we got a note from Terry Lynn with the latest on this rescue attempt. We knew already, thanks to Terry Lynn, that two of the four big ol’ pups had been captures. She reports now:
“There have not been any updates lately, because for the last week, there’s been no sightings of the two remaining Puppies
“However [a week or so ago], a friend called me and told me that she seen one of them on the north side of the interstate instead of the south side, and then it was limping very bad.
“We’ve been going up back-and-forth looking for it, but never saw it. The Sheriff Department called today and said they just received a 911 call from somebody that they saw a little puppy up there that look like it had a broken leg.
“We had it straight up there, and sure enough there it was. It’s not looking good y’all, I can tell it’s really hungry, and it’s not even using that bag leg, it just dangles.
“The other one, which makes me fearful that someone or something either killed it and injured this one or the other one is trapped somewhere and can’t get out.  I just pray it’s not laying somewhere suffering. The location that they’re at now there’s heavily wooded area and it’ll be kind of hard to get in there to check, but we will.
“Are heading up right now to move the traps to that side of the interstate so hopefully, we can get them safe. Please send good vibes, this is really taking a toll on me and breaking my heart.”
If you can help Terry Lynn or want to offer words of support, email her at [email protected].
[DEAR READERS: We’ll let you know as soon as we hear from Terry Lynn. She’s a busy rescuer — and the challenges can be dreadfully tough. It takes a tough person to handle the mission. — Larry.]
CONTEMPLATIONS
FROM A DESK IN URBAN SPRAWL
I have the TV on a lot in the morning — tuning out the shows but the commercials penetrate the most resilient brains and I wasn’t issued one of those. When I was growing up the biggest threats on TV were cured by Alka-Seltzer, toothpaste, Bayer Aspirin, Excedrin, "Monkey Blood and Band-Aids. Now, in today's overwhelming world,  the challenges are body smells, assorted medical problems that hadn’t been discovered as profit-centers in the ‘50s and ‘60s. You can hardly watch TV at all without encountering a medical concern that’ll keep you awake nights. Fortunately, these are answers to a challenge, not just announcements that “YOU MAY HAVE BIG MOUTH BASS BREATH SYNDROME” or “TEXAS SNOW RESORT INVESTMENTS FEVER” — you buy the stock online, but you also get a medical number that hooks you up to a Google link to a “certified consultant” with a cure for what’s called “Lost Cash Anxiety.” …
I need to turn the TV off and ask Alexa to play some Willie Nelson songs. Pancho & Lefty, perhaps. That uplifting number by The Highwaymen named “The Highwayman.” Sometimes my fave Willie recording of The Rainbow Connection…Begins: “Why Are There So Many, Songs About Rainbows.” You kids probably know the origin. It’s from YOUR childhood, not mine. Right, Kermit? FYI, kids. Kermit the Frog was created in 1955 -- heck, still just a tadpole.
—- OFFER WEEKEND TIPS BY CLICKING ON ‘COMMENT’ BELOW OR EMAIL [email protected] AND PUT ‘YOU NEED A WEEKEND OFF’ IN THE SUBJECT LINE. —-

ON A DAY IN MARCH, BIG LEAGUE BASEBALL BEGINS AND WE CITE DOGS AND CATS IN NEED....

EDITION OF THURSDAY/FRIDAY MARCH 28-29, 2024 [PetPowellPress] [LARRY NOTE: The word-stall continues as a slow pace — though Senior Office Cat William Powell suggested this morning that he could write this opening segment.
His agent suggests that he get the money up front rather than write first. Wise agent.
Let’s just move into what we can present thanks to the hard-working angels out there in the pro-animal community.
That’s William in his Contemplation Window. I pay that cat $110 a week to write quips and counsel me in times of stagnification — if that’s a word meaning “inexplicably rotten stall.”
William reports that he "invests wisely" in collectible novels from the '50s and '60s. He's one cool cat. Really liked The Carpetbaggers and Valley of The Dolls, he once confided. Big fan of those two authors:  Harold Robbins and Jacqueline Susann. 
MEANWHILE, ON THE SMALL SIDE
OF THE METRO SPRAWL, SOME DOGS…
We got the tips on these dogs from the folks with 4-Legged Helpers, those determined rescuers who focus on small cities and small shelters and their unwanted animals.
To ask about these dogs, call or text 972-897-4926 or 214-906-7680. Email fourleggedfosters @yahoo.com — calling or texting works faster, the note says.
This first guy is Milo, a Boxer/Bulldog mix in the care of the Wilmer Shelter. His bio reads that he is a "great young dog.  The ACO tells us he is just wonderful. Appears to be house-trained and kennel-trained. Knows some obedience. Walks great on a leash.   So sweet and friendly and lovable.  Adores people, other dogs, etc.
“Someone told the ACO he was pushed out of a car.  He was sitting and waiting for them to come back. This sweet guy deserves someone who will love him and never treat him like that again. He is the best dog.”
This little guy is Max, listed as a neutered Bulldog. His bio reads: “Max is adorable. Loves everyone he meets per the ACO.  He was found out and about in Wilmer on his own.  We were able to help get him fully vetted and he is ready for a home. Isn’t he the cutest???”
The Helpers’ note reads, “Tristan is an 8-10 month old Husky that  was found out and about in Hutchins.  He is incredibly friendly and the sweetest young guy. Loves  to talk to you in typical Husky fashion. He is absolutely adorable.  Sixty pounds so typical Husky size too.”
Flurry (left)is described as a “Siberian Husky” and his nickname is “Fonsi,” The Helpers’ note reports. He was “was found out and about by a Ferris police officer.  Such a beautiful dog!  He is so very sweet and seems to be completely kennel trained.  Loves to play fetch but once he has the ball, he gets completely silly. Shelter staff say he is a hoot and very fun.  LOL. SO cute!!”
This little beauty is Delilah, listed as a “Bulldog mix” in the Hutchins shelter. Here bio reads, “Delilah was found out and
about by a Ferris police officer.  Beautiful girl. She is just as sweet as sweet can be. Loves to cuddle and give hugs.  SO cute.  Loves to play.”
And the Helpers’ appeal closes with a family face, that of Joey, a Boxer mix who was rescued from a
count-down at a local shelter.
His bio reads, “This is THE most adorable sweetheart of a dog.  He is awesome. Joey has literally been waiting for months for a home or a rescue.  It is the saddest thing how overlooked this fantastic dog is.    He is a calm, cutie pie that just wants so very much to be loved. Very, very sweet boy.”

MEANWHILE IN MESQUITE,
CONSIDER MIMI’S SPIRT…
You have to wonder how the cute dogs wind up stray — of course, I’ve been wondering that for decades now. And wondering about it doesn’t change a thing. What changes things, is the good hearts of shelter volunteers, rescuers and big-hearted fosters and adopters.
The story on Mimi we got from the Mesquite volunteer dog biographer Debra Chisholm who reminds us that Mesquite is feature $20 dog adoptions through March.
She described Mimi as an “adorable high-spirited pup … a mixed breed that according to my Dog Scanner app has possibly Lab/Retriever and Jindo in the mix.
The 3-year-old, 26-pound Mimi came in as a stray on the 22nd. Debra reports, “She has large paws indicating she may be fairly good-sized when fully grown. …  She has the softest, silkiest brindle coat that you just want to pet.  She walks OK on a leash.  Mimi is not timid, fearful or nervous.  Rather she is outgoing and is a bundle of personality and enthusiasm. She is in need of some manners training as she continually will jump on you.  In my opinion this will need to be near the top of the list of things to be dealt with first.  She loves toys and thoroughly enjoyed the stuffed animals I gave her … She's athletic, too, as she climbed up the steps to the top of the play equipment.  Mimi is crazy about treats.  She is amiable and wants to play and entertain you.  She is high-energy and it will take time, energy and patience to navigate her through the puppy stage.  However, undoubtedly she will be worth the investment.”
Mimi’s ID is #55585404 — cite that number when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected]. Click HERE TO SEE MORE MESQUITE ANIMALS.
Among the cats in Mesquite’s shelter is this girl Blossom (#55553177) —- STOP THE PRESSES; She’s a rare Domestic Shorthair Mix! (LARRY NOTE: Well, rare in the sense that if you adopt her, she may be the only Domestic Shorthair Mix in your house! We have a couple — ideal companions and known to pay their own taxes. I’m kidding.) Blossom is medium size, white, neutered and just over 4 months old. She came in on March 19 and she’s available to adopt. This cat is currently living in the Mesquite Animal Services Conference Room. She’ll probably be happy to confer with any good-hearted human who adopts her.
CONTEMPLATIONS
PILLS AND OTHER STUFF
I’ve been giving William Powell pills for a couple of weeks to help his ears heal —- minor doctoring of the inside. He’s been doing fine. Today, as I held him in my lap in our (his and my) recliner, I announced to him that he was about to get the last pill of this treatment. We’ve had a virtually unblemished spree of pill-taking. I hugged him and cuddled him, then opened his mouth and stuck my right forefinger and thumb — pill properly ready for release — into his open mouth and he shook his head and bit the inside of my right ring-finger. “This was a completely accidental nip,” William told me, then slyly added, “I was aiming for your throat!” He’s a character. He still encourages me to pick him up, cuddle him and rub our noggins together! Such a gentleman. I’m not kidding you — he’s a darling who inspires my heart. …
Oh, let’s not forget this! Welcome to the First Day of the Rest of Your Regular Season, Texas Rangers fans. Now, let’s remember, it’s just a game. And that big stadium down the street is just a football field. …
If you’ve read this far, it would be appropriate to send a thank-you note to William Powell, a dear fellow with healthy ears, good teeth and the attitude of a gallant gentleman of manners. He apologized after he nipped me. I gave him a treat and now he wonders if he can nip me and expect a reward. I have twin sons with good teeth and senses of humor — I know how this bite/reward stuff works….
--- Offer pill tips by clicking on comment below or email [email protected] make the subject line read "GOOD BOY, WILLIAM!"

GOLFING FOR CRITTERS, CONSIDERING SPACE EVENTS ON EARTH & CONSIDERING PRICES....

EDITION OF WEDNESDAY/THURSDAY MARCH 27-28, 2024 [PetPowellPress] Ah, springtime returns. Just in time for Major League Baseball. Though it is a tad chilly this morning.
My inbox is full of so many bargain advertisements that it looks like a load of pre-Christmas email.
At some point I’m going to have to take a month off and spend it developing carpal tunnel syndrome in my delete button. Maybe I can train an Office Cat to step on the delete button intentionally for a month or two. Politics, grocery sales, office supply stores, car maintenance shops, clothes I can’t possibly fit into or would not wear because I’d have no place to wear a prom dress at my age and shape. OK, let’s see what we can find that’s animal-related, maybe human-related. Maybe human-and-animal-related.
[LARRY ASIDE: Do you need this edition to tell you that animal shelters are overloaded with dogs and cats? If you do, please allow me to welcome you to Planet Earth and ask from which part of Outer Space do you hail? I guarantee you that, once we colonize the Moon and plant some Bermuda and St. Augustine grass successfully and figure out a way to get oxygen and water manufactured from moon rock, city shelters, with city city council approval, will start flying dogs and cats to Moon Shelters. Solutions to saving animals in our own cities are on Earth, of course, but is anybody concerned about killing so many dogs and cats other than us Animal Nuts? — This text provided by Lounge-o-Cat Inc., Stevie Ray Treeboy, Junior Office Cat/Casual Sprawl Consultant. FYI, Stevie Ray is convinced sprawling on the Moon is not possible. Not enough gravity, he says.]
SPEAKING OF GOLF! WE WERE?
ON BEHALF OF CRITTERS, YES!
Our daily mail brought a note from the folks at Cody’s Friends Rescue — they’re about to “tee it up” to support the mission.
As you may know, Cody’s Friends Rescue is an all-breed organization that hustles to save these animals who are in a tough spot because humans have let ‘em down.
Coming up on Friday, April 26, Cody’s Friends will host a fund-raising golf tournament at the Indian Creek Golf Course Lakes Course at 1650 W. Frankfort Road in Carrollton.
You can sign up to play and/or sign up to sponsor the event by getting in touch with Cody’s Friends at codysfirnedsrescue.org.
As I was looking for information on the Cody’s Friends site I also found a photo of a dog who looks as if she might just enjoy golfers and chasing golfballs. Look at that happy face on Apple! Apple? Yep, but. It wasn’t always her name. She used to be Snow and she has a story.
Her bio on the Cody’s Friends site explains, "she was pulled from an overcrowded shelter just in time and has been thriving in her foster home. She’s great with kids and other dogs. She was likely a mom in the past as she loves her foster family’s litter of puppies! 
“Apple is a year old bully breed mix. She’s 40 pounds, but looks smaller as she’s a low rider. She has the sweetest smile and flashes it often, especially when you take a picture. She’s equal parts playful and snuggly. When she cuddles she melts into you like ice cream on a warm slice of apple pie. She’s completely housebroken and crate trained. She even goes potty outside when it’s raining with no issues - love that!”
You can submit an adoption application at www.codysfriendsrescue.org and ask about a meet ’n’ greet with a happy dog who got off the clock in a crowded shelter thanks to an organization that has scheduled a golf tournament to help support its “save ‘em all” efforts.
CONTEMPLATIONS
MORE GOLF, MORE STUFF, STRAY THOUGHT?

When I saw the note about Cody’s Friends golf tournament it reminded me that the folks at Straydog Inc, the legendary no-kill shelter and sanctuary in Near East Texas, have gone extraterrestrial with the non-profit's upcoming golf tournament — not that duffers such as myself might aim at a hole 240 yards away and hit the pill to Mars… Nope, you see the advertising artwork for the Eclipse Golf Tournament on April 8 — Eclipse Day — at the Gentle Creek Golf Club in Prosper. Details for how to play in this tournament are at straydog.org. It’ll be a few years before they can schedule a Texas Dark Side of the Putt Eclipse Golf Tournament. ….
MY INBOX this morning had an email with this subject line: “Your day is about to get better: Save up to 50% on fine jewelry.” Immediately I wondered how much the jewelry would cost if the company could afford to cut it’s price in half and still make money. Might be a jewelry concern run by a gasoline company.
On a similar topic: Anybody else remember when three tacos in a restaurant would cost you less than $5? And you’d get free chips and salsa, too? Is it fair to blame The Pandemic for the fiscal challenges of a night-out? Is the Earth off its axis? My brain is boggled by the the 3rd decade of the 21st Century. We’re approaching the quarter-century mark and I’m still, in general, clueless. I may start reading comic books again — if those Disney ducks are still around or Superman is still in Metropolis. I was so peacefully centered in the mid-1950s. And that concludes my mid-week whine.
— Offer any advice or tales of triumph by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] and put ‘COME IN FOR A LANDING, SPACE CADET!’ In the subject line. —

WHERE DO ALL THE DOGS 'n' CATS COME FROM? WHERE CAN THEY GO?

EDITION OF TUESDAY, MARCH 26, 2024 [PetPowellPress] Hello, Tuesday. And ensuing days. Let’s jump right into the situations that have crossed the threshold of our email inbox.
MAYA, ‘BEAUTIFUL’ & ‘SWEET’ —
A FOUND DOG IN SAN ANTONIO
We got the tip on this girl Maya from San Antonio tennis teacher Shelley Works who explained, “A student of mine and her family found Maya and the fosters who took her can no longer foster her.”
Right away, you see a need to help this girl who can (a) ride with sophistication in a motor vehicle, (b) run with a tennis ball in her mouth and (c) flop over in the yard and enjoy a good roll like any wonderful ol’ dog you’ve ever longed to have.
Shelley says”beautiful, sweet Maya…is a black mouth cur and about 2 to 3 years old.  She was found wandering the streets and a kind family took her in.  They found her a foster but the foster family is no longer able to foster and an adopter is
needed quickly.   She does not have rescue backing.
“She is up to date on shots and she is spayed.
“She is 45 to 50 lbs.
“She is a typical black mouth cur in that she is very smart!   She knows sit, stay, shake and lay down.

“She loves to play fetch and loves to run as well as loves her walks. She is very gentle and has shown no aggression at all towards the fosters kiddos who are 2 through 6. She had shown no aggression towards other dogs on walks.
*She is interested in cats, but with redirection, will leave them alone.”
To ask about giving Maya a home, call 214-995-3628 or email [email protected].
MEANWHILE IN MESQUITE,
SOME REAL GREAT FACES
OK, fans of dogs and cats, here we go with some really fetching faces, so to speak. We learned about them because Mesquite — dog adoption fee is $20 ’til the month ends — has those relentless volunteers who get to know the dogs and tell the world about them. We’ll close this section with a feline, too.
That is Katie, as named by volunteer dog-writer Debra Chisholm. Katie is a 3-year-old, 60-pound Lab mix, according to the shelter.
Debra says Katie “was picked up by one of our officers on 3/20 and brought to the Mesquite Animal Shelter.
“There is so much to like about Katie, so where to begin? She is a well-behaved, calm and gentle girl, and yet she is frisky and lively. And oh that smile! It will turn your heart to mush! She walks well on a leash. She knows the paw and sit commands, and she does a cute little dance that I assume is intended as yet another way to beg for treats. Katie is friendly, affectionate and will try to climb on your lap. … She has a charming and delightful nature. Katie looks like someone has taken care of her nicely and yet this adorable girl is still waiting for her owner to come and pick her up. Can you tell that she’s won my heart!?” Katie is #55565291 — cite that ID when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected].
Debra also provided the bio for Pepper, another Lab mix, also picked up by a shelter officer on the 20th. He’s about 3, weights 62 pounds and is “one lively and active fellow, friendly and sweet natured.” Pepper is #55558950.
Debra writes that Pepper is “confident and trusting, and with an outgoing personality.  He loves treats, and will take them politely.  He demonstrated his athletic ability by climbing up the play equipment in search of yummy treats. He was not interested in playing with toys or balls. Pepper just seemed to relish stretching his legs, running around the yard and enjoying the beautiful spring day. He did his business in the yard.  He walks well on a leash.  He is excitable and energetic! Obedience training would only enhance his already sterling qualities.  He needs a person or family that would spend time exercising and playing with him in the yard and then spend the rest of his time in the house with his people.”
And the veteran dog-writer Judi Brown offers this information about Ruthie (#5567394.) “Have you ever heard the saying, ‘To know her is to love her?’ Well, that saying definitely fits Ruthie! She is a 2-year-old, 45-pound Belgian Malinois that arrived at the Mesquite Animal Shelter on 3/21. She was brought in by one of our officers. She’s a handsome gal with captivating hazel eyes! She has elongated nipples due to over breeding.
“She didn’t deserve this but instead deserves a loving home where she will be cherished! Will you step up and make her dream come true? She was drooling indicating that she had a nervous stomach. She’s not quite sure of the noisy environment that she’s found herself in. Besides being overbred, it doesn’t appear that Ruthie has been taught any commands or even to play. These are things you can teach her. 😀 She’s very sweet, well-mannered, and doesn’t jump on you. She’s also calm and gentle. I’m sure once she’s in a loving home where trust has been established, she will become more animated and playful. She does come to you when called and appears to love being loved on. … She needs a yard to run in but more than that needs to share the comfort of your home. She would be best-suited for a laid-back home situation.” Same system: Cite her #5567394 when you contact the shelter at the number and e-mail above.
Judi also provides the bio of this guy Sonny [#5559166]. She writes, “Sonny is just starting to come out of his shell. He tells me that the shelter is a scary place, but that he’s learning that the people at the shelter are nice to him and his brother. With time and TLC his true personality will shine. Sonny is a 5-month-old, 24-pound Carolina Dog/American Fox Hound mix that arrived at the Mesquite Animal Shelter on 3/20 along with his brother Sergio. 
“He did stay close like a Velcro dog. He kept looking up to me wanting approval. He didn’t appear to know the sit command, but backed up in an effort to please. He was highly motivated by treats and took them gently. Because he’s so highly motivated by treats, he should be easy to train. He went after a ball but did not retrieve it. … I had to do a lot of coaxing to get him out into the yard. He sniffed other dogs in kennels without a problem. He would love a yard to romp  in but even more so he would love a pile of blankets or a lap to nestle in!

This is Sergio, Sonny’s brother. Judi writes, “He has darker coloring than Sonny and his ears aren’t as floppy.  Sergio is a 5-month-old, 22-pound Carolina Dog mix that arrived at the Mesquite Animal Shelter on 3/20. He was brought in along with his sibling by one of our officers. Sergio is a work in progress. By that I mean, he’s very timid and needs TLC to build trust. He began to relax a little more as he spent more time in the yard. He was basically a Velcro dog being loyal and staying really close to me. He jumped on me several times very gently wanting a hug! He was intimidated when I tried to get him to sit and also too scared to meet other dogs. … Sergio has a lot of potential, especially to be a loyal, devoted companion! He would enjoy your yard to explore, but would prefer to spend most of his time
in the house with his new family.”
The system is, cite the dogs ID# (Sergio is #55559181) when you call 972-216-6283 or email [email protected].
See more dogs and their bios by clicking on this MESQUITE SHELTER LINK and you can also click to the many cats and kittens waiting in Mesquite. This girl Bonnie (#55553160) is a 4-month-old Domestic Shorthair Mix who came in on March 19. Still growing. She’s available for adoption. You can visit her — she’s currently in the Mesquite Animal Services Conference Room. Cats are noted for Conpurrencing.

COMPLATIONS
ASSORTED NOTES
The Sunday/Monday night of sleeping? Lousy sleeping, 3 a.m. Daylight Time wake-up. No idea why. So far it has wrecked two days going on three. Insomnia? Or just the alignment of the planets? Too much noise on the campaign trail? Yeah! That's probably it. …
Big league baseball begins this week. Any fans antsy over that clash of Major League Baseball with the Solar Eclipse? Major League Baseball already has rules about what happens if an outfielder loses the ball in the sun but I don’t know about losing it in the odd sky of an eclipse or the behavior of the dugouts during an eclipse. (I have to write: I’m kidding! Why do I have to confess? Because there are people who don’t follow baseball or eclipses and have no idea that Major League Baseball is mainly an “indoor sport” these days and the eclipse won’t bother the domed schedule Maybe. Shouldn’t bother the umpires. They call ‘em like they see ‘em.] …
We’ll close this Contemplation with a moment of careful thought. OK. Done. Result of careful thought: I will not try to work on my own car or take out my own gall bladder — two things that, in 2024, need special skills skills. …
Favorite place to visit by car? Santa Fe. Alpine/Marfa area, Sonic. Kidding about Sonic — a constantly dieting vegetarian can’t pull into a fast-food spot without setting off alarms in his doctors’ offices.
—- Offer burger joys or pizza triumphs by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] and put ‘DIET PIZZA? ARE YOU NUTS?’ in the subject line. —-

A TIMELY NOTE FROM THE STAFF....

EDITION OF MONDAY, MARCH 25, 2024 [PetPowellPress] Good afternoon, I am Junior Office Cat Stevie Ray Treeboy.
I have been asked to explain why there is no edition full of needy dogs and cats published this vibrant Monday in the month of March on the day of the 25th in the year of the 2024th. 
Remember the time change a couple of weeks ago -- when all the bipeds on the planet were supposed to spring forward?
The guy who's the human face of this publication can't really spring. His spring sprung years ago. He's lucky he can fall back
And, he is still suffering from temporal maladjustment -- in his case it has to do with time and some other of his personal elements not yet identified.
Whatever happened to him at 3 a.m. this particular Monday morning kept him up and watching two episodes of Diagnosis Murder, one Monk episode and part of a Murder She Wrote episode.
"Having consulted with the household dogs and my Senior Office Cat William Powell, my understanding is that these TV shows were popular when our human was working nights and weekends and he never saw them. To him, these are all new though he will, sometimes, blurt out in the middle of the dark pre-sunrise morning, "LOOKITTHAYUT VINTAGE 'VETTE!!!!" or "DICK VAN DYKE IS RULES!"
Our understanding is that these episodes of shouting can be controlled by sleep. Fat chance for ol' Typofingers. Trying to adjusting to the time change rattled his creativity. All he thinks about now is trying to work the word "eclipse" into a story he's titled "SUNRISE IN DALLAS -- FOR NOW." He says it's science fiction, but I've seen his high school science grades. His report cards are usually adorned with a consonant from farther into the alphabet than "e." He still lays awake nights wondering about the fate of his book "The Lingering Effect of Artificial Time Changes On People Who Resist Change."
We hear it's up for an Influential Nobel Prize if Congress will pick a time and stick with it year round.
Cats and Dogs have no problems with time-change,. Well, except at meal time. Hard to stay regular when the clock can't.
Thank you for reading.

We'll see you in the Tuesday edition,
Stevie Ray Treeboy (Portrait Above, Right)
Junior Office Cat
 Open For Treats 24 Hours



 

 

Authorized by Senior Office Cat William Powell (Portrait Left)
Regarded Globally as Humanity's Most Patient Cat

ONCE UPON A TIME, A LITTLE KITTEN WAS FOUND...AND KNOWS HOW TO NAP!

This edition of Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap is dedicated to anyone who has ever taken in a cat or a kitten and asked, "OK, now what do I do?"

[LARRY ASIDE: Been there. Sometimes the cat or kitten you pick up is perfect -- well-fed, healthy, human-friendly kitty cat. Sometimes you pick up a cat or kitten that comes with ailments, parasites and attitudes -- and, yet, well, you know what suckers we cat people are. I wonder if that helps make us better dog people? OK, moving along!]
By now you've spotted the photo of this beautiful cat on her favorite sleeping spot.
Her name is Oona and she bunks with some longtime friends of readlarrypowell.com. These are animal people who value privacy -- once you've served in the White House, you have a need for privacy...I'm kidding. These are just good folks with good hearts that they share with animals. 
We'll call our narrator "Mom." It seems to fit.
She told us The Story of Oona and you'll see how "What do I do now?" fits into Oona's life.
Mom tells us, "We found Oona under our shed one cold morning.  She was so tiny, her eyes were barely opened. 
We never saw her Mama come back to her."

Fortunately, Oona was under the right shed to meet the right human hearts. 
So, the challenge was to feed Oona.
 Mom writes, "A while back I saw the picture of Hastings on your site and Martha was feeding him with a syringe.  I figured if that worked for Hastings, I would try with Oona." [LARRY ASIDE: I think this is that photo -- it was taken on Oct. 5, 2021, a day or so after I found Hastings pausing blindly in the middle of the Duncanville street for which he is named. Yes, he has grown up from "tiny" to the size that could be labeled "You're gonna need some help lifting that cat."
Back to Mom's story of Oona. 
"She has grown into a sweet kitty," Mom writes, adding, "You can see in our pics of her that she has made herself at home here. She sits on the arm of the couch and watches football with us.  It is the only thing on TV, that she likes.  
"We chose Oona for her name, after seeing a cute little girl on TV with it.  Thanks for sharing Hastings story.  We learned how to save Oona, from seeing it on your site."
Mom also wrote, "She was so small I was afraid to do anything for awhile."
 Ah, Oona has had good help growing up and learning to live with her dear, loving humans.
As you know, Dear Readers, it is the loving humans who make sure there's a way in a household to "Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap."
[DEAR READERS: It's pretty cool to show off the dogs and cats and the people who love them in our long-running weekend feature, Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. Send photos and bios of your beloved critters snoozing to [email protected] and we'll celebrate them in the weekend edition of readlarrypowell.com. We believe in dogs, cats and their loyal humans. Show of hands, please: How many of you are proud to be an "animal nut"? Count me in! Larry "Raised by dogs and cats" with "behavior correction from adult humans" Powell.]

FROM FAIR PARK AND THE STATE FAIR TO YOUR HOUSE, ANIMALS ARE EVERYWHERE

EDITION OF FRIDAY, MARCH 22, 2024 [PetPowellPress] On a particularly need-a-nap Thursday afternoon in early Springtime 2024, we’re

already looking toward autumn and the “Big Cowboy.” That’s his photo — I snapped Big Tex during one of his Midway shifts at the State Fair of Texas in Dallas’ Fair Park in September. Feels good to see him, doesn't it?
In case you wondered, the 2024 State Fair is scheduled Sept. 27-Oct. 30. What brought the State Fair into my happy thought processes is a news release from the Fair’s Senior Vice President of Public Relations, Karissa Condoianis. We’ll get to that in just a second.
[LARRY NOTE: If the weather is too cloudy for Monday’s eclipse, you can always stop by the State Fair this fall and stand in Big Tex’s shadow — pretty sure it’s the same effect. Based on experience walking around his worksite at different times of the day.]
One more thing, this edition will also look at some other traditions in our area. So read on. And remember, we’re also hewing to our basic mission of helping animals and the people who are trying to help them. After all, local shelters — taxpayer financed and non-profit — are full and that also means rescue groups are loaded, too. No place for unwanted animals to go.
These loaded shelters are a symptom of humans failing to love and honor the animals they adopted. Thus foster homes are needed, not just adoptors. Foster an animal — find a rescue group, find a city shelter, find a non-profit shelter. When you foster an animal, that opens a spot for the next dumped dog or cat. How do you become a foster? You know how to google? Contact your city shelter or one of the many, many rescue groups online.
MEANWHILE BACK
AT THE FAIRGROUNDS
You know, of course, that the ”fairgrounds” are what — in the off-season — is called Fair Park. It’s a legendary Dallas park. 
The State Fair of Texas, in the autumn and summer, not only draws people to its midway, but also to the Fair’s Creative Arts contests. How many? We’ll just cite what Karissa’s news release declared this week:
“Texans, it is time to showcase your talent and creativity – the 2024 State Fair of Texas Arts & Crafts and Cooking Contest Guides are now available for download at BigTex.com/CreativeArts. A time-honored tradition since the Fair began more than 137 years ago, the State Fair’s Creative Arts team holds pre-Fair arts and crafts contests and Fair-time cooking contests each year, awarding the best of the best.
“With more than 1,100 arts and crafts categories and 25 cooking contests, there is something for every Texan – including opportunities for kids. Whether you prefer to display your artistry by cooking up tasty treats in the kitchen or through arts and crafts, the State Fair’s Creative Arts’ competitions are for you.
“With more than 1,100 categories In 14 different pre-Fair contests, amateurs and professionals of all ages are presented with endless opportunities to have their innovative entries under the spotlight.”
To read the rest of this news release and several others — including one about the State Fair of Texas Community Giving Program distributing $662,000 this year, clicking HERE.
I’ve included photographs I took of not just Big Tex, but of animal art entries (and winners) from the 2023 State Fair. Kind of uplifting to see that so many people love their animals so much that they’ll paint ‘em, photograph ‘em and even knit ‘em or whatever craft created that porcine entry— look at that pig’s curly tail!.
MEANWHILE, THINGS ARE BUSY
AT THE SPCA OF TEXAS
This may be a busy week for the SPCA of Texas as the legendary Dallas-based organization teams withe PetSmart Charities to participate in National Adoption Week. It runs through Sunday.
And the SPCA’s announcement reads, "During the in-store event, SPCA of Texas invites pet lovers to make room in their homes for pets in need. PetSmart Charities is celebrating its 30th anniversary and encourages people to consider finding room in their hearts and homes for pets like Bentley, who came to the SPCA of Texas as an emergency boarding case through the organization’s Animal Cruelty Investigations unit..”
Bentley the Boxer mix boy was among those available dogs when the news release was sent around. He may still be. His story from the SPCA: “Bentley’s owner was found deceased in August 2023 while her spouse was in a physical rehabilitation facility. Although he expected to reclaim Bentley, the husband could not, so the SPCA of Texas neutered Bentley and treated him for heartworms. Bentley is a wiggly guy who loves to snuggle. He recently visited a nursing home where, after inspecting every corner, Bentley cozied up to each resident to give and receive a little love. To view all available adoptive pets at the SPCA, visit https://spca.org/adopt/find-a-pet/."
For the rest of the week, participating PetSmarts include: PetSmart Waxahachie (11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday); PetSmart Denton (1441 S. Loop 188); 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday, PetSmart Mesquite, 19175 LBJ Fwy.). Go to SPCA.org to see more adoption, fostering, volunteering opportunities.
In the meantime, this week, the SPCA announced the appointment of Dallas Animal Services veteran Melissa Webber as “the SPCA’s Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the most comprehensive and longest-serving animal welfare agency in North Texas, effective April 15, 2024.”
The news release added, “Webber brings over 17 years of animal welfare leadership and management experience to the SPCA of Texas, most recently from Dallas Animal Services (DAS), where she has served since 2020. While at DAS, which is estimated to have the ninth-largest dog and cat intake in the United States, she managed a $19 million budget, led 175 full time employees, and worked to ensure DAS’s continued commitment to its guiding principles of public safety, compassion and no shortcuts.”
TRINITY GAP RESCUE
READIES FOR WALK-A-THON
As you may recall the Trinity GAP Rescue non-profit evolved from the Euless Trinity High School Girl’s Awareness Program quite some time ago — in 2003. I remember writing about this all-female student organization for The Big Paper Downtown -- and that was "way back."
Through the years GAP Rescue has worked with Euless Animal Services to move the shelter’s animals into homes and places that are safe from the creeping clock.
And, now, once again, GAP Rescue is staging its annual Trinity GAP Rescue Walk-a-thon. It’s set for April 20 at the Euless Trinity High School Track. (These are a couple of GAP's Euless adoptables -- the dog is Swifty and the cat is Sweet Tar.)
A note from GAP reads, "This is a really fun event so bring your dogs to walk or walk a shelter dog!  Lots going on here—adoption event, raffles and more!  This is GAP’s biggest fundraiser of the year so please help them make it a huge success by attending in person or supporting them thru a donation at http://trinitygaprescue.org/." At that site you also can see adorable adoptables as well as back 501c3 GAP with your cash. Click on that artwork to make it grow big enough to read! 
“All proceeds benefit the Euless shelter dogs,” according to GAP.
Got questions about the GAP Walk-a-Thon or helping GAP or the animals, email [email protected] or text 817-689-4740. 
CONTEMPLATIONS
ASSORTED NOTES AS RAIN FALLS
Well, heck, the soggy weather kept me from establishing my late evening mile run outside. I”m kidding. If any of a number of doctors thought I was trying to run a mile, I’d get a new one who treats aging mean for “HMS” — Harmful Misguidance Syndrome. I put on a pair of running shoes and alarms go off at the doc’s and at the insurance company. Of course, I’d immediately get calls from a sneaker company asking me to be the TV spokesman for HDS — Heavy Duty Sneakers, The Running Shoes for the Hopeless. …
Is there an unasked question about that upcoming eclipse? I can’t think of one. I think maybe, “Will the eclipse affect the attitudes of free-roaming squirrels?” …
Honestly, life’s pretty good here on Earth if the leaders can all adopt a peaceful attitude and gasoline could drop back to around a buck-25 a gallon. A gas price website HERE says that in 1965 — the summer I got my first professional newspaper job — I paid a just 31 cents per gallon of regular that I pumped into my Mom’s 2nd- or 3rd-hand ’56 Ford Victoria. Good thing I was making $250 a week as a feature story-and-obituary-writing teenage not-yet-outta-high-school reporter. Oh, did I type $250 a week? I meant to type $56 a week. Newspaper money managers were crazy enough to hire me but not crazy enough to really pay me!
—- Offer sympathies or astonishment by clicking on ‘comment’ below or email [email protected] and put ‘ELECTRICITY IS CHEAPER THAN GAS?’ In the subject line. —-

CELEBRATING DAYS WHILE WARMING TO THE HAPPY FUTURE OF ANIMALS & POETRY

EDITION OF WEDNESDAY/THURSDAY MARCH 20-21 [PetPowellPress] During the afternoon of March 20, I can report that, as yet, no one in our household has been victim of an Extraterrestrial Abduction. As we noted in the previous edition, March 20 is Extraterrestrial Abduction Day, as explained in Holiday Insights. More on March 21st’s “Days” in Contemplations.
AN UPDATE ON MOONEY:
A PUPPY’S CHALLENGE
By now you know the beginning of the Mooney story — the little Frenchie was a “parvo puppy” offered on a Dallas neighborhood bulletin board and, in a gesture of decency, taken in by veteran rescuer and advocate Kimberly Jones.
He had multiple health problems. Kimberly got busy getting them tended to and she set up a gofundme for Mooney — the little guy was facing some expensive medical procedures. [LARRY ASIDE: He has a “romping buddies” support group. In this photo snapped by Kimberly, you see Mooney snoozing with his pals. Kimberly writes, "The white dog on the couch with Mooney is my deaf dog Dutch and the brown dog looking at Mooney is Apache. ❤️❤️❤️.”]
On Tuesday, Mooney underwent the MRI he’s been waiting for to see just how to approach caring for his vision, his sometimes wobbly walk and other residue of an unhealthy start in life. Remember, he’s still just a puppy. But he’s got a big heart with vitality.
Kimberley sent a note after the MRI revealing that Mooney was diagnosed with hydrocephalus — basically a not-normal buildup of ”cerebrospinal fluid” in the brain. It can affect vision, ability to walk and many other areas of daily life. But there are treatments.
Kimberly wrote a post-MRI note that, quite possibly, people who’ve had a dog or cat in a medical fix can appreciate with their hearts.
“I'm still processing this,” she wrote and confessed, “I am quite overwhelmed. I love Mooney so much so I want him to be as happy and healthy as he can be. I've reached out to a couple special needs rescues who mainly take in hydro pups to get advice and information from them on how to make sure I'm doing everything correctly and as best as I can.”
At the gofundme site HERE you can click in to the notes from Kimberly and see what she’s learning and what the challenges are. You can also see just how much needs to be raised to get Mooney over this medical challenge and on to living a happy romping life with his dog pals.
[DEAR READERS: Kimberly included this LINK to a veterinary explanation of the condition Hydrocephalus.
A GIRL NAMED ZELDA
GETS SOME THE ATTENTION
[LARRY ASIDE: Yes, when I saw the name “Zelda,” I immediately thought of the writer/painter Zelda Fitzgerald, the famed wife of the also-
famed author F. Scott Fitzgerald — maybe you’ve heard of her. If not, perhaps you’ve heard of another Zelda. Wikipedia reports that Zelda Fitzgerald inspired the name “Princess Zelda,” in the Nintendo video game series The Legend of Zelda.” Perhaps, when you adopt Zelda the Dog, your heart will have a happy reaction when you and the dog hear the name “Zelda.”]
Our tipster Debra Chisholm, among the determined, volunteer dog-biographers at Mesquite Animal Services, provided the first-person report on Zelda, picked up as a stray on March 10. Debra writes, “My Dog Scanner app suggests she has Beauceron in her breed mix.  She is about 2 years old and weighs 48 pounds.
“Zelda is scared and uneasy in the shelter.  She is very submissive and will come to you for comfort.  This shy girl needs reassurance and to build trust and confidence.  She wants so much to please and will stay close to a human friend.  She has a sweet gentleness about her.  Zelda is overtly affectionate and seems starved for attention.  She walks OK on a leash but when she walks past dogs that are barking at her, she is intimidated.  We will continue to spend time with her helping her to feel more comfortable and cared for and she will undoubtedly warm up.”
Zelda is #55502660 at the shelter. Use that ID # when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected].
And, as previously noted, Mesquite’s dog adoption fee in March is $20. Zelda for $20 — a bargain, no doubt.
This handsome guy on the shelter bench is Barkley who, Debra wrote, is a “high-spirited and fun-loving fellow … listed as an American Blue Heeler. The 51-pound, 2-year-old was picked up as a stray on March 15.
Debra says Barkley “has tons of personality. He is excitable, playful, and a life-of-the-party kind of guy. He does jump on you in his excitement so that will need to be addressed. He is lively and active with a fairly high energy level (but not hyperactive). He does walk OK on a leash, but pulls in his exuberance. He knows the sit command. He has a confident and outgoing personality, and there is not one bit of nervousness or shyness about him.” He sits for treats, likes to play and enjoyed being petted. Barkley is #55536226. Cite that ID when you call the shelter at 972-316-6283 or email at [email protected].
You can see many more dogs and cats by going to this Mesquite Shelter LINK.
Among the dogs in the shelter are these siblings Bosco, with the pointy ears, and Bernard, with the curled ears.
They came in as strays on November 17. Yes, November.
We got the story on the boys from Debra.
Bosco and Bernard are listed as American Pit Bull/Alaskan Husky mixes. Bosco is #54808075. Bernard is #54808055. Cite those numbers when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected].
Debra’s bio of Bosch reads, "This very handsome boy has brindle coloring, one blue and one brown eye, and the sweetest smile ever! He weighs 65 pounds, is approximately 3 years old and is neutered. This boy is full of vim and vigor! During the photo shoot he had a blast in the shelter yard, running, fetching, playing and sniffing out all the interesting scents! He walks well on a leash, but is a bit of a puller. … He likes treats and will sit for them. He is a friendly boy and once he slows down, he is perfectly good with being petted and loved on! the subject line TAG, ID 54808075. Throughout the month of March the shelter is running a special of $20 or any adoption. Need additional information? Then please call and talk to a staff member at 972-216-6283 or email at [email protected].
Bernard weighs in at 62 pounds — he’s about 3 years old. And his online bio reads: “It was difficult to get pics and a video because his overwhelming passion was to explore the yard. And also, this may have been the first time he has been outside since arriving and was just enjoying the great outdoors. He was a-okay with being petted and loved on. He likes treats but isn't especially motivated by them. … He seems to have been well-cared for. Bernard walks nicely on a leash. He has a moderate energy level.”
[LARRY ASIDE: Two dogs, waiting since November for someone to come and take them to a good home. At least they’re in a shelter with staffers and volunteers determined to save ‘em and find those happy homes for dogs and cats.]
CONTEMPLATIONS
ASSORTED DAYS AND NOTES
While today’s opening paragraph focused on the lack of participation in
ExtraTerrestrial Abduction Day on the 20th, we have not ignored the three things celebrated by Holiday Insights on March 21. The 21st is, the Insights folks report, Credit Card Reduction Day, Fragrance Day and World Poetry Day. Since I have neither credit nor a splash of cologne today, this, then, is what passes for poetry in a world without poetic standards:
“If your card's overloaded
But you smell real good
You might write some poetry
If you thought you could. …
[LARRY NOTE: My sincere apologies for that less than poetic outburst. You oughta hear my “colorfully poetic” outbursts — potentially a novel titled Words I Learned in The Newsroom. Oh, my. Yep, there were expressions for every occasion. Here’s one now: “Fiddlesticks!” That’s called “toning it down.”]
—- Offer a word or two or click on ‘comment’ below or email [email protected] and put “BLEEP BLEEP BLEEP AND SPUTTER” in the subject line. —-

SAVING ANIMALS WITH JOY AND -- WHAT? -- HOW TO CELEBRATE EXTRATERRESTRIAL ABDUCTIONS DAY

EDITION OF MARCH 19-20, 2024 [PetPowellPress] OK, Dear Readers, I just wanted to give you a heads-up. I checked with the Holiday Insights folks and discovered that March 20 is Extraterrestrial Abductions Day. [More on the holiday in Contemplations — including how to celebrate. That’s rescued kitten Hastings all grown-up and watching Earthling activities from his window seat. I’m not sure he’s from Earth — after all, I found him as a gobby-eyed kitten — could have been a disguise — in the middle of a Duncanville street on a day that was overcast and could hide UFOs beaming him down to invade and take-over a modern American home with TVs, computers and a pantry full of cat food.]
FROM THE 4-LEGGED HELPERS:
ONE GOOD NEWS; TWO WAITING!
Our pals at 4-Legged Helpers send out notes about animals they’re trying to help and for weeks now the emails have included three animals.
This girl Bailey has led the list. Followed by Brenn and Joey.
So, on Tuesday, I opened the 4-Legged Helpers note and there was no photograph of Bailey. I feared, of course, that she’d reached the end of her stay in an overcrowded local shelter — as happens all-too-frequently in Dallas/Fort Worth.
I emailed the question “Did Bailey get adopted?” to our longtime 4-Legged Helpers contact Laura Macias and she replied (to the relief of readlarrypowell.com), “Yes. In CT which is so awesome!”
That’s right! An unwanted dog in suburban Texas is wanted by someone in Connecticut. And, Laura explained that the pressure had increased. “She was about to be dumped in a shelter.” Now she’s an East Coast pup with a home. How about that for a good thing!
The two dogs who steadily showed up in the email with Bailey still need places to live safely and be loved. To help them, call or text 214-949-2726 or email [email protected]
This is Brenn, a young spayed Aussie/Bulldog Mix waiting in Fort Worth. She’s described this way: “Most wonderful dog. So  precious  and gentle and sweet.  This little sweetie was found out and about in Fort Worth.  She loves other dogs and all cats - she is SUPER cute.  Already fixed, Housetrained and crate-trained.  Just needs someone to love!  Please.  She is a thousand times cuter than these pics.”
And this is Joey, a Boxer Mix fellow who was rescued from a local shelter. Joey’s bio reads, “This is THE most adorable sweetheart of a dog.  He is awesome. Joey has literally been waiting for months for a home or a rescue.  It is the saddest thing how overlooked this fantastic dog is.    He is a calm, cutie pie that just wants so very much to be loved. Very, very sweet boy. … He will have to go to a shelter soon —-HELP, HELP, HELP!” Some may recall that Joey was on the schedule for euthanasia months ago when he was rescued.
MEANWHILE, IN MESQUITE
A RESCUE-ONLY CHRISTINA
& A LIFE-OF-THE-PARTY LAB….
We got the tips on these two from Mesquite Animal Services dog-bio-writer Debra Chisholm. Remember: Mesquite’s running the $20 dog adoption special through March. And, by now, you know the system: Cite the animal’s shelter ID number when you call the staff at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected].
This is Christina — she’s # 54924017, a mixed-breed, maybe 4-years-old and about 65 pounds. She came in as a stray on January 19 — and she’s “rescue only” right now.
Debra explained, “She does well on a leash and enjoys walks but she has a medical issue that causes her to favor her right back foot and sometimes limp on three legs.  The vet reported that one toe is pushing into her other toes and causing discomfort so that is why she holds it up when walking.  Vet did feel as though amputation of that toe may be in the future for Christina though it is not urgent right now.  Unfortunately she is also heartworm positive and is in her second month of the slow-kill process.  This precious girl is so worth the save and RESCUE ONLY.”
Christina’s “one sweet, gentle, loving girl with a mellow personality,” Debra writes. “She enjoys being petted and loved on.  She seems to be fine with other dogs but please ask the staff for a dog test if interested.  She knows the sit command.  Christina is crate-trained.  She would probably be best suited for a home which matches her personality--quiet and laid-back and it goes without saying, an inside life with her people. … She needs to have a full and comfortable life.  She would undoubtedly become a loyal and devoted companion.”

And that brings us to Debra’s bio of Amelia (#55502185), the Lab mix who came in as a stray on March 10. She’s about 2 and weighs 51 pounds.
And while has a black coat, “her legs are a brindle color,” Debra writes. “This is one life-of-the-party, lively and high-spirited girl.  She walked fine on a leash.  She was thrilled to be out in the yard on a beautiful Texas spring day stretching her legs.  She climbed on our play equipment, chased (but did not return) tennis balls and ran exuberantly around the yard. Amelia has got a lot of fun-loving personality. She likes treats and will sit for them. She is friendly and will let you pet her once she has exhausted some of that energy.  She would do best with a person or family that would provide daily exercise, play time and enrichment.  She does not want to be someone's backyard pet but instead an important and cherished part of the family.”
See more of Mesquite’s adorable adoptables — dogs and cats — by clicking on THIS LINK.
CONTEMPLATIONS
NEWSY ANIMALS AND UFOS, TOO
Back to our opening topic: Holiday Insights suggest ways to celebrate Extraterrestrial Abductions Day on Wednesday: (1) “Avoid open fields and other areas where a UFO can easily land and capture you.” (2) Hold a UFO party. (3) Watch a Sci-Fi movie (The Insights people suggest either of the two Independence Day films or E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. And (4) Read a book with Extra Terrestrials in it. No suggestions. But I might suggest any presidential autobiography starting in 1950.
Now, back to the confirmed visitors from somewhere else. Holiday Insights didn’t mention the original The Day the Earth Stood Still with Michael Rennie as the space alien, but it’s a good movie to see because you can get a look at American society as it was in the early 1950s — attitudes, attire, etc. And, speaking of presidents and the ‘50s and Extraterrestrial Abductions Day, Holiday Insights offers this UFO quote from President Harry S. Truman in the early ‘50s: “I can assure you, that given they exist, these flying saucers are made by no power on this Earth.”
And there is this warning from the final scenes of the 1951 space alien invasion film, The Thing From Another World: “Watch the skies. Everywhere. Keep looking. Keep watching the skies.” …
In the meantime, I’ll keep watching the newspapers. In fact, I was reading an announcement in my ol’ hometown paper, the Texarkana Gazette, about the daily news podcast it has established to keep subscribers on top of the latest news and I scrolled down and up popped Tuesday’s weekly feature by Mallory Wyatt, PET OF THE WEEK — sometimes it’s PETS OF THE WEEK.
The photo came from the Texarkana Animal League.  And the text reads, “Scribble, top, and Quill are 10 months old. The siblings are quite different. Scribble is affectionate and playful, while Quill is quiet and loving. The siblings do not need to be adopted together. Their adoption fees are $135 each, which includes microchipping. Call the Texarkana Animal League at 877-525-4825 for information.’’
It always does the ol’ dog-n’-cat-lovin’ heart good to see the newspapers reaching out to readers on behalf of animals. FYI: That news podcast — “only a couple of minutes long” — is “published at 8 p.m. each day. It’s described as an “audio summary of the latest news — no searching or scrolling for stories required.”
The readlarrypowell.com suggestion: Adopt one or both of those cats and read the paper with them each morning. Then, at 8 p.m. each evening, you and the cats can share a snack as you listen to the podcast and work the crossword.
Our cats are really help with crossword puzzles. Perhaps cats enjoy drinking milk or dining from saucers because the name of the dish reminds them of their species’ arrival on Earth. I kid the cats! In my time at The Texarkana Gazette & Daily News (the PM paper) in the mid-60s, I never wrote a space alien story. But there were some local characters I wasn’t sure about. It’s that way in every town, right? Not just in Texarkana, right, Klaatu?
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