ReadLarryPowell.com

AMID THE LINES OF TYPE, SHELTER ANIMALS WAIT; IN OKLAHOMA, A RESCUE UPDATE

[EDITION OF MONDAY, MARCH 18, 2024 [PetPowellPress] Ah, from our viewpoint, it’s a sunny Monday and the yard needs to be mowed. I
gambled that I’d get it mowed before the big rains and I lost. Step onto the front porch and hear the low growl of panthers obscured by the weeds carpeting the yard with tiny pink blossoms. My Senior Office Cat William Powell cautioned me, “They try to pass it off as purrs, but it’s a growl. Trust me.”

That is Senior Office Cat William Powell and you may note that this is one of his motion picture audition photographs. His agent says the pose gives him a sort of feline Humphrey Bogart vibe. William’s up for a role in the remake of Casablanca — Catablanca. [LARRY CONFESSION: I should be fined for typing that punchline.]
A DOZEN IN DALLAS,
ON THE SHELTER PAGE
Just for the heck of it, I clicked onto the Dallas Animal Shelter & Adoption link this morning.
Generally my assorted inboxes are filled with photos of shelter dogs on an immediate countdown — I frequently see the photos AFTER the deadline passes. “Deadline” — ugly word in big city animal shelters.

Anyway, here's the deal: Go to this LINK and you can see this dozen available animals. (LARRY ASIDE: In big city shelters it’s more like “available or else animals.” To the shame of all us animal-loving humans.]
MEANWHILE IN MESQUITE
THE PERSONAL ‘TOUCH’
As you know, Mesquite Animal Services -- currently running a $20 adoption special on dogs -- has a dedicated bunch of volunteers who meet the animals, learn about their tendencies and then write about them. Here are Three Canine Biographies (and a cat note) designed to influence people to open their homes to a new friend or two!
Our pal Judi Brown, the veteran dog-writer, writes, “I was in love with Luna as soon as I got her out of her kennel. It was very obvious to me that she was an extremely SWEET girl. Going out of the kennel I couldn’t get her interested in any other dogs. All she wanted to do was look up at me! Luna is a 4-year-old, 28 pound brindle Catahoula Leopard/Australian Cattle Dog mix. She was brought in by one of our officers on 3/7. She is already spayed. We have some students helping us out and they wrote ‘happiest dog around’ on her window. That is very accurate.”
This “very curious and alert” dog “sits for treats and takes them gently. Then she looks up at you with her kind eyes indicating that she would like some more. She chases balls but does not retrieve them. When I put her scarf on she gave me kisses. She’s very loving, happy, playful, gentle, and obedient. It’s obvious she wants to please her special person. It’s also obvious that she would be very loyal. …Ya’ll, this dog is a diamond in the rough! Because of her loving nature, she would be good with children. She would love to cuddle up with you on the couch or in a bed at your feet during family time.”
Luna is #55489224 — cite her ID when you call the shelter at 972.216.6283 or email [email protected].
Same system for this guy Arnold (#55495516), a year-old “majestic” German Shepherd with the “strongest ball drive I’ve seen in a while,” Judi writes. [LARRY ASIDE: We think that with that ball drive Arnold may qualify as a forward for the Dallas Mavericks, if they have an opening.]
Back to the who needs a home: Judy describes him as “delightful, handsome, statuesque, majestic German Shepherd. … He is one year old and weighs 62 pounds. He was brought in by one of our officers on 3/8. He’s already neutered.
“When I first got him out into the yard, he was romping and frolicking around. He spent a lot of time looking over the wall. Part of it was probably because he’s curious, but I was wondering if he was looking for his previous owners.  A very distinctive trait that Arnold has is that he has a very strong ball drive. Frequently, dogs with such an intense drive are used to train for search and rescue. Arnold found a ball on his own, and kept tossing it in the air and entertaining himself with it. Then I start tossing the ball and he would bring it back, but didn’t want to relinquish it. I played fetch with him until my arm got tired. He didn’t want to stop. He did sit for treats when I could get his attention away from the ball. He took the treats gently. He’s well mannered, but at the same time very active. [May be house-trained.] When he got out into the yard, he peed and peed. I didn’t think he was ever going to stop. It was obvious that he had held it. …Arnold is happy, active, curious and affectionate. If you have an active family with a big yard and time to play fetch then please tag Arnold or come meet him.”
Remember, cite his ID 55495516 when you call the shelter at 972.216.6283 or email [email protected].
Same system for this girl Bonnie. Her bio-writer Jamie Dodson says Bonnie is a 4-year-old Boxer/American Pitbull
mix who weighs 46 lbs.  She arrived as a stray on 3/11. She’s #55507803 in the shelter.
And, Jamie writes, “Bonnie's beauty goes perfectly with her very loving personality. She walks well on a leash and enjoyed going for a walk to stretch her legs but preferred to stay close to me to receive plenty of affection. I feel she has been someone's indoor pup, yet they have not come to reclaim her. She is a bit thin but we are going

to help her get back to a good weight.
“Bonnie knows the sit command, takes treats gently, loves to sit close, puts her head in my lap and gave me a few kisses. She enjoyed meeting new people and would sit next to them asking for some petting. … Bonnie would make a great family companion! She would love to have a secured backyard to run and play in, then come back inside where she can take long naps in her own puppy bed, or what she would love the most is cuddling close on the couch with her family members.

You can read more about these animals and other animals — dogs and cats and others — by clicking on THIS LINK TO ANIMALS IN THE SHELTER.
Still among the cats is this 3-and-a-half-year-old guy Otis (#47919614), currently waiting in the Mesquite Animal Services Conference Room. He’s a “red/white” fellow, who came in on February 12. And he’s also that very rare household feline, a Domestic Shorthair Mix. [LARRY ASIDE: We’ll still pondering use of the term “very rare.” Very not rare, we confess, maybe.]
CONTEMPLATIONS
THE CHALLENGING SIDE OF RESCUE
We’ve previously told you about the attempts by our longtime Oklahoma tipster Terry Lynn Fisher to round up 4 big pups someone dumped in, as she wrote it, “the middle of nowhere” near her town, Burns Flat, Okla., so far west in Oklahoma that it might as well be in the Texas Panhandle.
Here’s’ Terry Lynn’s Sunday evening update on the project to save all of these dogs. There’s a challenge that some of you veteran rescuers may have encountered, too. Ever had a dog snarl at you after you rescued him or her? Keep reading.
Terry Lynn opens with, “Well, not really much new news,” but, then, yes, the pace picks up! She continues:
“There were a couple calls into the sheriffs department again today (Sunday) that the dogs were getting up on the interstate
“Jason’s back in town, so he took me up there this evening, and we reset the traps with fresh smelly dog food. Both were down the embankment down by the creek, so at least they weren’t up on the interstate.
“One of the two dogs I have now is timid, but friendly. It lets me pick it up pit. Leavitt takes food from my hand, everything. The other one wants to kill me. I really don’t know how to describe it. It’s so scared, that when I try to move it or anything if I get too close, it will bite.
“So I’m not sure where to even go out with that one. Any advice is greatly appreciated. [EMAIL your advice or good wishes or thanks-for-working-so-hard for the pups to Terry Lynn at
[email protected]. That's an earlier photo from before two of the four had been captured.]
“There’s no telling what they went through out there and I know it scared to death, but I don’t really know what I’m supposed to do with it. 
“My heart breaking over all of this. I’m hoping in time it’ll come around, but I don’t have anybody that will keep it for any length of time and I have no room at all in my kennels. It’s gonna be one that I’m just not sure how to do.
“I’ve been looking around and asking anybody if they have a larger trap. I’m gonna try my luck with that, and hopefully catch them.
“Keep sending good vibes, I’m getting tired, but I can’t stop. Every time I head up there on the interstate I’m scared to death. I’ll find one dead. So far they’ve been blessed, but as many causes coming in on them being on the interstate, I’m afraid it might not take much longer.
“Thank all of y’all for your encouraging words, this has been a hard one.”
—- Offer tips or whatever you’ve got by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected]. —-

FROM LITTLE TO BIG -- A QUITE HIRSUTE CATNAPPER. A FELINUS TEXACANUS?

It's the kids that can be so entertaining. Did I type "kids"? I meant "cats."

And kittens. And here's this St. Patrick's Day weekend celebration of our long-running weekend feature, Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. There's nobody Irish in the house, though one cat claims to have been "raised by leprechauns" and has sworn me to secrecy "if you ever wanna see that pot 'o gold," I was sternly warned.
Moving along, we focus on the youngest cat now living in the home office of readlarrypowell.com.
He is Hastings Streetboy. 
Now, the theory was, I'd tease readers earlier in the week with a photo of his tail before revealing the tale. That's the photo.
 I was attempting to type last week when suddenly, but gently, this fluffy cat tail slid beneath my computer screen and came to rest on the keyboard.
It has been worse. Before I got the new computer and changed desks, Hastings would lay on his side behind the screen, peak through the space and, claws out, slap at my fingers as
they flew or stalled across the keyboard. Every now and then he'd successfully stab a finger and bring it to a painful halt. He was just playing. And I have a supply of antibiotic cream and bandages handy, so to speak.

That second photo shows Hastings peeking around the screen after he pulled his tail back to his side of the screen and decided to come out into the open and demand a treat. He got one, of course.

Among the places he likes to sleep in the house? The cat bed on the dining table. Where else would you store a cat bed? He likes to peer up at the artistic stuff my catfanspouse Martha hangs on the wall. She has the touch! Also, she has the ability to transfix a young cat. 

I found Hastings on Hastings Street in Duncanville on Oct. 4, 2021 -- he was probably a month old. He had gobby balls of yuck stuck to both of his eyes and could not see. He was starving. And how he made it to the middle of Hastings Street was beyond me. I caught him after he clawed his way up a curb and felt his way into a flower bed.
Then I took him to Pet Medical Center of Duncanville and those folks cured him of everything -- cleaned up his eyes, fed him, bathed him, treated his ringworm, etc.

He's the big beautiful cat with a load of hair because those folks knew how to heal him. 
You see here more photos through the life of little Hastings Streetboy. One of the photos shows him on the bed -- if I hadn't awakened him, he'd be out like a light on a pair of bluejeans -- they're stored there like the true teenager I am.

I don't know how much the hairiest cat in Texas weighs but I do know that it's more than he did when I snapped that hand-held kitten photo after his first visit with the Duncanville vets and staff.
I also included a photo of Martha hand-feeding him. She did a good job in getting him to learn how to eat and grow and charm the household. 
I do enjoy him. He has a personality that fits into a house full of pranksters and wits and the two humans who are mere observers of the circus and its stars.
He's not the first kitten I've rescued. But he is the first one that grew up to make me think, "Should I shave that cat for the summer?" Then I remember: Hastings has an air-conditioned home and extra fans if needed.
What kind of cat is he? He's a tFelinus Texacanus
GrandCuddlemus. Or, Texanacute Felinus Moppus, depending on the length of the coat. We're still unsure on the rascal's family tree.  His coat gets lighter in summer. (Yep, that's a summer mugshot on the right.)
[DEAR READERS: We're always looking for beloved critters to spotlight in our long-running weekend feature, Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. Send photos and stories of your beloved companions to [email protected] and we'll post 'em in our weekend edition. It's dedicated to beloved animals and the people who belove them. Pretty sure that's misuse of a verb, but what the heck -- the cat was slapping at my fingers.]

DOGS, CATS, TRIUMPHING AS A PUPPY AND ADORING BUT AVOIDING ICE CREAM....

EDITION OF THURSDAY/FRIDAY MARCH 14-15, 2024 [PetPowellPress] This is the longest time-change spell of morning melancholy I’ve
had since the Uniform Time Act of 1966 went into effect. Having been OK’d by Congress in 1966, the wretched first “spring forward” was in 1967 on, appropriately, April Fool’s Day. I’m sure I’ll adjust to last Sunday’s change probably on the morning of November 4, when I wake up an hour late. Or an hour early. I’m so uncertain -- I could fall back right now.…That’s a portrait of my cat Hastings sleeping on the other side of my computer screen. He’s our hairiest cat — you may have guessed. At least, unlike the OOCs (Offcial Office Cats), he’s not napping ON the keyboard.
CALMLY WAITING IN DALLAS,
TOM TOM THE CAT & OTHERS
Out of the blue today we decided to take a look at the cats in the care of the enduring animal organization, the Humane Society of Dallas County. Here's how the Society’s official bio reads, “From humble beginnings, HSDC has grown from a home-based cat rescue to a dog and cat shelter that has served the community of Dallas County for over 40 years.”
You probably first encountered the organization in its initial identity as “Dog & Kitty City,” the shelter at 2719 Manor Way, not far from the southwestern edge of Dallas’ Love Field. [LARRY ASIDE: It’s recently undergone a marketing/identity change — a “rebranding,” the pro marketeers call it. So, you see more of the organization’s presence in its public events and Dogs and cats. You can see the adorable adoptables at dognkittycity.org.
We decided to focus on cats for today’s look at the Humane Society of Dallas County. That opening three-photo display features the 3-year-old, 12.61 pound-Cat of Many Poses, Tom Tom. He’s “shy at first, but will roll over and take belly pets when I get to know you,” his bio reads.
He was transferred from another shelter. [LARRY NOTE: I’m guessing here, but “Saved from another shelter” may be the best way to express his situation.]  Tom Tom is FIV Positive and that limits the homes he can go to — he’ll have to be eitheran only cat or living with another cat that is FIV positive. And the Humane Society tells prospective adopters, “A staff member would be happy to discuss this virus and this pet’s needs with you. Tom Tom is #5106 at the shelter.
You can read more about him or read the stories these four in the closing photo strip by going to https://dognkittycity.org. You may also email [email protected] or call 214-350-7387.
A TRIO OF $20 DOGS
WAITING IN MESQUITE
Well, not really a “trio,” but three of them. I’ve never heard them sing together. But the Mesquite Animal Shelter volunteer dog biographer Debra Chisholm may have an idea of how much harmony exists in the souls of these three adorable adoptables. Remember, Mesquite is running a $20 adoption special on dogs.
We’ll start with TREVOR (#55499680), who Debra describes as a
“mixed breed boy that arrived on 3/9 as a stray. … He weighs 43 pounds and is approx one year old. He has a beautiful coat and stunning eyes—one blue and one brown. He’s a friendly fellow, and was more than happy to stay close and receive petting and loving attention. Trevor has a low-key personality and is well mannered, calm, and gentle. He knows the sit command, and he will do so for treats which he takes nicely. He pottied in the yard, so is possibly house trained.
“It was a beautiful day for being outside and Trevor thoroughly enjoyed being outside. He ambled about the yard—no racing, no running, no zoomies, just a leisurely-paced saunter about the yard.”
To ask about Trevor (or any of the Mesquite Animals), cite the ID number when you call the shelter at 972-216-6382 or email [email protected].
[LARRY ASIDE: Ever spent any time around a Lab or a Lab mix? Look at that mugshot of Kiran. From personal experience, I swear that’s the face you fall in love with when you meet an adoptable adorable Lab-type.]
Debra’s tale of time with Kiran begins, "This handsome chocolate Lab/Retriever mix was picked up by one of our officers and brought to the Mesquite Animal Shelter as a stray on 3/4.  Kiran is about 4 years old, weighs 69 pounds and is neutered.  He walks quite nicely on a leash.”
And, based on observation, she writes, “Immediately upon entering the [shelter’s] yard he pottied so is possibly house-trained.  He spent a great deal of time playing Sherlock Holmes investigating all the interesting smells in the yard.  He does not seem to know any commands.  He enthusiastically chased the tennis balls I tossed across the yard but did not know to return them to me.  Doubtless he could be taught to fetch as well as learn some basic commands, especially since he is crazy about treats!  This lovable and charming fellow would certainly make a wonderful companion to some person or family that would give him a committed forever home.
“He seems to have been well-cared for and yet sadly his people have not come to reclaim and he must find himself a new home.” Kiran is # 55467146 — cite that when you call 972-216-6283 or email [email protected].
And that brings us to this girl Simone, an American Pit Bull mix who is #55446486 at the shelter. The year-old, 30-pound girl came in as a stray on Feb. 29 — yes, a Leap Day Stray unless she was Leap Day Dumped.  [LARRY ASIDE: Look at her blurry tail -- she wags it too fast to focus! That's a happy dog!]
Debra reports that Simone “has been on meds for a URI but is finishing up with her meds and getting healthy. Simone is a bit uneasy in the shelter. When walking on a leash, she is hesitant and especially so when walking past dogs barking at her.  She is well mannered, and is a calm and sweet-natured youngster. When she was away from her kennel with all the noise of the other dogs barking, she warmed up and relaxed. Her tail was wagging nonstop, and she became more spunky, though not overly so. She loves treats and is polite about taking them. She is an amiable pup, and had no issues whatsoever with me petting her and loving on her.
“She has a moderate activity level. Her ideal home is as follows: plenty of TLC, a couple of warm doggie beds strategically placed around the house, an inside life with her people and some yummy nutritious food!”
Cite her ID #55446486 when you call 972-216-6283 or email [email protected].
See more Mesquite animals — dogs and cats — by clicking on this Animals-in-the-Shelter link. Remember, dogs are $20 through March — though they are clearly worth a million bucks in the right home.
A LITTLE BIT MORE
ABOUT TOUGH BABY MOONEY
Seriously, is this little guy tough or what!
We got a Mooney update from his pal/rescuer Kimberly Jones. [LARRY ASIDE: That’s one cute little Frenchie feller, iddenit! Sorry, my tender heart slipped back into my Northeast Texas childhood patois. I'd accidentally hit the patois key on my keyboard.]
So, in case you missed Kimberly's report, here's the first segment:
“Mooney is doing really well after his vaccines. He has had no reaction at all. Here is a video of him playing while Apache (his big dog friend!) watches him.” Here’s that VIDEO LINK.
FYI DEAR READERS: As you may recall, there’s a continuing need to hustle up some money to finance the key MRI for Mooney so his vet team can determine what sort of additional treatments he needs to correct unhealthy aspects to his young life. That MRI is scheduled for the 19th. Here is the GO FUND ME LINK FOR MOONEY: https://gofund.me/3d5d6785. You can follow his story there, too.
Kimberley also reports, “Mooney's head bobbing is back... You can definitely see a difference now that he has been off of the steroids (Prednisolone syrup). Here is a short video of him marching around the front yard. I am getting him a snuffle mat and dry puppy kibble to help his brain development and start him on dry food a little…” Here’s THAT LINK: https://photos.app.goo.gl/jc4i7U66nJS5inWL7 .
And, then, Kimberly has posted a video that is endearing and wonderful when you consider the tough road Mooney has been on,.
Kimberly writes, “I just wanted to share a video of Mooney barking for food. It's the only time he makes any noise. I'm making extra noise with his bowl so he would bark for the video (excuse my messy house... I'm having to keep my dog Apache off the furniture because I think he tore his other ACL sigh)... ENJOY!!!”
Click on this link (make sure you turn the speakres on): https://photos.app.goo.gl/h6nDAJHe8UECQNtKA
CONTEMPLATIONS
NOTHING IN PARTICULAR
Question from a man with cravings: Is there really any time of the year when ice cream loses its allure? Vanilla reigns year-round. Yes, I’m dieting like a madman and can’t have any. I have no control. …
When I became a vegetarian around 30 years ago, my funspouse Martha announced, “All my relatives suddenly thought I’d married a communist.!” A lot of rock-solid, tax-paying American supporters of Democracy are vegetarians. And they may eat ice cream.
Every now and then something flashes across my largely inert brain. This particular day it is this: My Pop’s favorite ice cream was black walnut. He’d take Mom and their three boys to an ice-cream shop on the western end downtown Texarkana — and we’d get a dip of whatever we wanted and he’d get a dip of something we couldn’t fathom, black walnut. Yeah, I guess when I’m dieting and I start missing ice-cream, I miss my Pop, the guy who taught me how to play baseball, throw and catch a football, enjoy TV westerns and country music and how to order an ice cream cone when you’re not as tall as the counter. I have no idea what else this diet pressure might reveal -- perhaps what my shoes look like from above.
Wait, I’ve missed this. March 14 is “Pi Day.” You remember Pi — 3.14. Pop loved Coconut Cream Pie. He was a Depression Era Child. Was tall, slim and handsome — never ever had to diet.
—- Offer anything you want except calories by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] and put “HEY, BIGGUN, ARE YOU REALLY CALVIN’S BOY?” In the subject line. —-

PUP UPDATES, ANIMALS NEEDING HOMES, GOLF IN AN ECLIPSE & A GLANCE AT THE '50s

EDITION OF WEDNESDAY/THURSDAY MARCH 13-14, 2024 [PetPowellPress] Anybody know if Leap Year and the extra day affects events we should beware of on the Ides of March, i.e., the 15th? My scholarship on Roman customs is woefully inadequate. Sic friat crustulum, you know? Let’s move the chariot along.
REGARDING THE OKLAHOMA
‘MIDDLE OF NOWHERE’ PUPS
The legendary Burns Flat, Okla., rescuer/advocate Terry Lynn Fisher sent us a note just before noon today.
Regarding those puppies we cited in our most-recent edition, Terry Lynn wrote, " And we got another one,  I’m so happy. Two down. Two to go.  My heart is so happy. They were so excited to see each other. It was so adorable. Now onto the remaining ones. But what a relief in this one ❤️.” [LARRY NOTE: To send a “way-to-go” note or a “How-can-I-help-you?” Note to Terry Lynn, email [email protected].]
MOONEY UPDATE AFTER
VET VISIT WEDNESDAY
We’ve been following the story of Mooney for a while, thanks to our longtime tipster, the rescuer/advocate Kimberly Jones who rescued the little guy from an challenging situation on a “free dog” note in a neighborhood bulletin. You may recall that Mooney came with an awful assortment of challenges
On Wednesday he visited his docs and staff at Metro Paws Animal Hospital.
Kimberly reports, “Mooney saw my vet today. He had his fecal checked and it was clear. He got his nails trimmed. He got his first set of puppy shots. He got dewormed. He still has a grade 3 heart murmur. He got his heartworm prevention. He goes back in one month for boosters. He did really well and had no adverse reactions thankfully. I was worried…”
He’s scheduled for an MRI on the 19th — that’ll determine how his remaining problems — possibly neurological — can be treated, Kimberly says.
She also sent a video link HERE. She wrote, “Just a little cherub baby marching around my backyard."
[LARRY ASIDE WITH INFO: And, because MRIs ain’t cheap for man nor little puppy dog, here’s the link to Mooney’s gofundme page:
https://gofund.me/b5dbcce6. You can also get the latest photos and updates at that site.]
FOUR PUPS DUMPED,
ONE HAS A HOME, THUS…
Yes, thus, three pups remain.
You may remember this Wills Point tail from late February. Key words from Traci Peterson’s Feb. 25 note about this rescue: SOME JERK.
The note reads, “Two days ago, some jerk dumped 4 mixed breed puppies near our house. They appear to be a Lab mix and are very sweet, but a little skittish right now. We don’t have the money to get vet care/food for them. We have no problem fostering them and working with them if you could help out and find them homes. We live east of Dallas in Wills Point.  There are 2 boys and 2 girls.”
And the latest update, sent to us via our reliable tipster Sydney Busch of Friends of the Animals at Cedar Creek Lake, reports that one of the girl pups has been adopted. Thus, we have just these three photographs of the remaining littermates. The photos didn’t come with an id of which is the remaining female, but you can learn that when you get in touch with Traci to ask about adopting one or more. The name tags on the photos are Star (Texas tag dangling on his chest), Flag (golden eyes and a white spot at the end of her tail) and Stripe (floppy ear and all-black tail). Three cute pups.
Email [email protected].
[LARRY ASIDE: Keep the term “SOME JERK” in mind because the gestation period of dogs isn’t all that long and SOME JERK may have another litter to dump in the near future. Get his/her license plate and turn SOME JERK in to the authorities.]
MEANWHILE WE SPOTLIGHT
MURPHY, GINA OF MESQUITE
The story of Murphy comes to us from Mesquite Animal Services volunteer dog-writer Judi Brown. [LARRY ASIDE: This photo of a dignified dog posing for a major fashion shoot also comes from Judi.]
Judi wrote, “Murphy is laid-back and a little on the shy side and is hoping for a laid-back, loving family that will appreciate his gentle nature. He is a one year old mixed breed, possibly Australian Shepard/American pit mix. He weighs 42 pounds and was brought to the Mesquite Animal Shelter on 3/7 by one of our officers.”
And she reports that Murphy “doesn’t appear to know the sit command, and he wasn’t interested in my treats. When I sat down, he came to me and put his head on my lap and gave me kisses…. He’s a sweet, gentle, well-mannered, friendly sweetheart. He would do well with a  family that would cherish him like he deserves! He would reward you with kisses and cuddles as you watch TV at night. He told me he wants to be in the house with his new family. Mesquite Animal Shelter is running a special and you could get all this love for just $20!”
Murphy is #55489253 — cite that number when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected].
Also available for $20 is this girl Gina whose bio was prepared by volunteer dog-writer Debra Chisholm. “This adorable girl is Gina, brought to the Mesquite Animal Shelter on 3/8 as a stray. My Dog Scanner app identifies Akita Inu in her breed mix, along with Jindo and Shiba Inu. She weighs 41 pounds and is about 1 1/2 years old. She has the most charming personality. She is vivacious, high-spirited, outgoing, and confident. She is friendly and oh-so-soft to pet and love on, which she is OK with!  … She walks beautifully on a leash, and did not react to the dogs she walked past en route to the yard. She does not seem to know any commands and was not interested in toys or balls. She does love treats and takes them quite gently. She just seemed completely ecstatic to
be out of her kennel, stretching her legs and moving about freely outside on a beautiful sunny day. It never ceases to amaze me how so many awesome dogs end up at a city shelter and never get reclaimed. This is one of those!”
Gina is #55494784 when you call 972-216-6283 or email at [email protected].
See more Mesquite dogs and the shelter’s cat population by clicking on this link to the shelter.  
Among those shelter cats is a kitten — this is just-over-a-month-old Franklin. He’s a small boy gray and white Domestic Shorthair Mix. Ask for him by his shelter ID #55497590. He came into the shelter on March 9 and he’s available (because of his age) to “Rescue Only.” He’s currently in “Staff Foster.” [LARRY ASIDE: He’ll be a big boy some day — I’ve seen it with my own eyes in kitten after kitten.]

GOLFING IN AN ECLIPSE?
MIGHT IMPROVE SOME GAMES?
On the heels of opening it’s new buildings at the rescue, rehab, rehome non-profit Straydog Inc., the folks with the legendary organization are getting ready the Eclipse Golf Tournament on April 8.
This may be something never done in Texas — I don’t even know which record book to open to find out that fact.
Still, you can click on this Straydog golf LINK (not links, you ol’ duffers) HERE to register for the event at the Gentle Creek Golf Course in Prosper.
Money-raising golf aside, the primary aim of Straydog Inc. isn’t working with your putter, it’s finding homes for the animals in their care.
Thus, for the latest Straydog PupDate newsletter cites these two Pups Of The Week. Maggie is the mother of May — they were found running loose in front of the Straydog property. So, naturally STraydog took them in. She’s said to be a “very loving dog” and, her bio reads, that she currently loves “spending my days playing and taking care of my baby girl, May.” Also likes cuddles.
And Princes Leia is described as a “gorgeous German Shepherd/Husky mix” with “beautiful blue eyes.” She’s a “friendly, happy girl who loves to play with her stuffy toys. She loves all people and will make a great partner for walking or hiking.”
To schedule meeting or having a playdate with a Straydog Inc. pup, email [email protected]. See more adoptables and read about Straydog’s activities and projects at www.straydog.org.
CONTEMPLATIONS
AT MIDWEEK, THE MIND WANDERS
Heck, my mind will wander any day of the week. On Tuesday afternoon, as I looked for something newsy on TV, I ran across a presentation of a Duck & Cover film for kids — shot in the early 1950s when everybody on earth was having a fit of nuclear terror. No known connection between the Duck & Cover scheduling and the Oscar triumphs of the movie Oppenheimer. …
Frankly, the nuclear stuff didn’t scare me nearly as much as the 1957 black-and-white film Not of This Earth, directed by Roger Corman and staring Paul Birch as the blood-collecting invader from another planet and movie scream queen Beverly Garland. So real, it kept me awake nights — wait, can that be the origin of my insomnia? Outer space? Or Hollywood? You can see the movie on YouTube HERE.
SOMETIMES I MISS the 1950s — it was the decade in which I fell in love with baseball and the Mouseketeers Annette Funicello The Mickey Mouse Club Show (after school, 1955-58). Of course, we didn’t get a TV until probably 1957. Ah, the good old days.
— Offer advice or something that makes sense by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] and put “THE ‘50S ARE GONE, DUDE” in the subject line. —-

AN EDITION THAT LOOKS AT CITY RESCUE AND 'MIDDLE OF NOWHERE' DETERMINATION

EDITION OF TUESDAY/WEDNESDAY MARCH 12-13, 2024 [PetPowellPress] Flash from the past. As I was typing that dateline I remember how proud I was to learn to spelled the word “Wednesday.” I might have started out with “winsdee” —based on the way it was pronounced in our house.
Rather than attempt to organize this edition, I’m just going to drop in notes as I encounter them. For example, that is a photo of our first two daffodils of the year popping up in the flower bed at our back fence — the forested area in the background is a local local nature preserve. Just wanted to make sure you didn't think that was a photo from the Arboretum... Flowers aside, we must now look at a Pumpkin.
A YEAR OLD, 44 POUND
PUMPKIN READY TO GO
Why didn’t we write about Pumpkin the autumn? Because Pumpkin had become a Mesquite stray until March — yep, picked up on the 7th of March. We learned about her from the bio by volunteer Mesquite dog-writer Judi Brown. Pumpkin, described as a “cute cream and white American Pitbull Mix,” has a minor medical problem. In her close-up photos you can see the red “thing” in the corner of her left eye. “That’s called a cherry eye,” Judi writes. “It is cosmetic only. She still has good vision in that eye. It can be taken care of by surgery and it’s my understanding it’s not extremely expensive. It doesn’t bother her.
“She has also had a litter. She is very energetic and had a strong pull on the leash. However, once she got out into the yard, she was relatively calm. She didn’t even scamper around the yard. She just casually strolled as she was checking out her environment.”
And, Judi adds, “When I sat down she came to me to have her ears scratched and she put her head on my lap. She definitely craves loving and attention. … The shelter is running a special so sweet Pumpkin can be adopted for just $20. That includes her shots. That seems like a super deal to get a playmate and a loyal, devoted friend! She would also cuddle with you during family time.” To get a deal on Pumpkin, cite her ID #55485587 when you call the shelter at xxxxxx or email [email protected].
MEANWHILE, IN OKLAHOMA
TERRY LYNN’S MISSION…
Our reliable Oklahoma tipster, the tough Terry Lynn Fisher of Burns Flat, Okla. (way out west), usually focuses on the nearby animals in trouble. But her heart is big enough to work on tough projects way beyond the Burns Flat City Limits.
This was the note she sent out last Thursday. And those are the photos from the “scene.” It reads:
“I am physically ill at my stomach. Last couple of days, the Sheriff Department has been getting calls about some dogs right off of I 40 which is 7 miles north.
“I’ve gone up to the location that people have said and never found anything. Today I got a better location of where they were, they were a few miles west of where people have been sending me
"Y’all, somebody has dumped these puppies out there. All I have seen was four, and they were starving. We put food and water out for them, but I do not have any empty kennels whatsoever.
"I need Fosters, Rescue, any help I can get. These babies are going to end up being coyote food or end up on I 40 squished. This is breaking my heart and I don’t know what to do.”
To help Terry Lynn, email [email protected].
Here’s the latest note from Tuesday morning.
Terry Lynn wrote, “At this point, I’m ready to pull my hair out. For almost a week, I’ve sat out in the country in the middle of nowhere for many hours each day.

“I caught one that first day. But the other three? Nope!!!!
“I was in tears yesterday because there was no sightings of them at all. I just knew coyotes got them. My crazy-ass son drove the field to a creek. It slopes and I don’t do sloping. At all. But he found them! All three were just chillin by the creek. So he moved all the traps down where they’d been all day long.
“We went and checked a couple times. Nothing. Then, we went and looked before bed and they were all three in the original place.
“They are brats   Seriously brats    But I’m more stubborn so we will move the traps again today.  They were at the original place again at 6 this morning.  So, as soon as I can get help I’ll move the traps again and pray for the best. Ugh. I’m so frustrated.”
Once again, email Terry Lynn at [email protected]. [LARRY NOTE: You may not be able to drive out to Burns Flat to sit in the “middle-of-nowhere,” but you can sure send a note to Terry Lynn telling her how she’s doing the work of angels in helping these dogs. Rescuers — Oklahoma or Texas — may have the biggest, stubborn hearts in the world.]
MEANWHILE, BACK
IN MESQUITE: A ‘KID’
Not all critters needing a rescuing heart are waiting in a pasture somewhere. For example, there’s this “rescue only” guy in the Mesquite Shelter.
Our pal Debra Chisholm, one of the volunteer dog-writers at Mesquite, writes, “This delightful bundle of puppy energy is Winston, with primarily Malinois in his breed and possibly a bit of Norwegian Buhund in the mix. He weighs 10 pounds and is approx 2 months old. He came in as a stray on 3/5.
“Winston is rescue only due to his age. He is all puppy with the energy, enthusiasm and behavior of a typical 2-month-old pup. He is a tail-wagging, on-the-go puppy who will delight and entertain you with his antics. He’s crazy about treats, and has even figured out to sit in order to keep the flow of treats coming! Winston will put a continual smile on your face.”
And, Debra writes, “He will need lots of patience and commitment in working through the challenges of the puppy stage, but the investment will be well worth all the effort as he will become a devoted and beloved companion!”
“He is a friendly youngster and happy to be cuddled, petted and loved on. He’s got the softest fuzziest coat imaginable. … It goes without saying that this is a dog who needs to live inside with his people.”
Winston is #55470707 at the shelter. Cite that ID when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email
at [email protected].
See many more Mesquite shelter animals by clicking on THIS SHELTER LINK.
As you know, there are plenty dogs AND cats in the Mesquite Shelter.
And since we opened with a seasonal Pumpkin dog today, we’ll close with an autumn-seasonal black cat named Salem, a small, 4-and-a-half-year old Domestic Shorthair mix who arrived at the shelter on September 7, 2023. [LARRY ASIDE: That has to be one patient cat! Ask about #54109275.]
CONTEMPLATIONS
ORGANIZING STUFF
This will be a brief contemplation segment.
Cats are no help at organizing stuff in an office. They have staff for that.
Dogs would be good observers if they did not tend to nod off.
This office needs a lot of re-stacking and new stacking and some “throw it out.”
As my Office Cat William Powell says, “Humans have many failings and too many complaining.” Yeah, he gets extra treats. I’m trying to buy his approval with snacks.
—- Offer anything smart by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] and put “GET SOME SLEEP” in the subject line. —

A WRETCHED MORNING AFTER SPRINGING FORWARD AND A CAT IN THE OFFICE

EDITION OF MONDAY, MARCH 11, 2024 [PetPowellPress] I walked into my office Monday morning and this is what I found.
Junior Office Cat Stevie Ray Treeboy still trying to get over yesterday’s combination: Springing Forward in the morning and hanging out with the Oscars last night.
Stevie Ray and I agreed that it would have been helpful if the TV broadcast of the Oscars had been able to put a name under the faces on the screen. Must be a byproduct of aging — the inability to identified faces younger than 30.
So, in honor of Stevie Ray’s intention of recovering from the time change, we will take the morning off, too.
We’ll be back in print later in the day, unless the lack of energy forces a collapse onto a couch or onto an unmade bed — I haven't had the emotional wherewithal to do my chores — I’m telling you, the time change rips the drive out of my eyeballs and sends my fingers tapping any keys but the ones I need to hit. And, no, there is no alcohol involved. No chocolate either. Just the government interfering with an insomniacs attempt to sensibly sleep.
—- Offer advice or times to trick the temporal monkey by clicking on comment below or email [email protected] at your leisure. —-

WENDY'S FACES -- EXAMPLES OF LETTING A TOTALLY ADORED SLEEPING DOG LIE

If, as you clicked onto this edition of readlarrypowell.com, you looked at that picture and said, "What a dog!" you'd be right, but not quite right enough.
That's an angel. A magnificently adorable personality.
Wendy is the "puppy" my persuasivespouse Martha got off the busy streets of Dallas in 2009.
 Martha "explained" to people haphazardly trying to get rid of the dog by "shooing" the pup that "I'll take that dog." I think Martha might have added "or else."

What we've got here is one sleeping dog and two expressions.

Also, for as long as I've known Wendy, I'd never seen her sleep like this, i.e., positioning her "chin" between her paws as she snoozed in the "big dog bed" in front of the living room TV.

It was so charmingly peaceful. And when I looked back at her a few minutes later, I
could see that she'd moved her head and her face was in a new "comfortable" position. 
I couldn't hug her without disturbing her, so I photographed her and wrote about her!
Wendy has been loved ever since that day in 2009 that Martha spotted her and brought her home. Her life was dicey before that. Someone in an apartment complex got her as a puppy and then worked to shoo her out of the apartment and away from the complex. That's why she was trying to follow two people as they walked alongside busy Polk Street that afternoon. 

What earned her the spot in this weekend's Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap? It's like the real estate saying: "Location. Location. Location." She was right in front of me and my cellphone was "on."

In all these years, I've seen her snoozing in many places on many pieces of furniture, under some of it and, now and then, with another dog or with one of our extraordinarily peaceful housecats.
Wednesday Louise Wagstaff Arden is a great dog. She also loves Martha and, when Martha's watching TV, Wendy crawls up to become a pretty sizable lap dog so Martha will have a place to rest whatever she's reading. Wendy is a very practical dog.
[DEAR READERS: Offer photos and stories of your dogs, cats, and other slumbering critters for our weekend edition, Let Sleeping Dogs Lie & Napping Cats Nap. Email the info to [email protected]. We love to show off other peoples' critters.]

A FRIDAY PM EDITION: AUSSIE GREYHOUNDS, U.S. DOGS ''N' CATS & HARRY OF PEGASUS!

EDITION OF FRIDAY PM MARCH 8, 2024 [PetPowellPress] I'm not gonna say it rained a lot in our neighborhood the last two days, but every time I hit the space bar on my keyboard, one of the spirits in my computer yells "SURF'S UP!"
Wring out your socks and keep reading. We’ll get to Mooney in a moment.
MORE AUSSIE GREYHOUNDS
COMING TO GALT’S CARE
Can it be that the Greyhound Adoption League of Texas has the biggest global reach of any American rescue group ever?
That question was inspired by a note on GALT’s current newsletter that begins, “We are anticipating the arrival of more Aussie hounds and need your help!”
That mugshot? That’s a guy named Diesel who arrived last year from Down Under. One of many. One of many HELPED by GALT. More on Diesel in a moment.
The next arrivals? GALT’s appeal reads, “We need to make space for them in our boarding kennel by moving more hounds into foster homes. Can you welcome a foster hound to your Dallas, Fort Worth, or Oklahoma City area home? Email [email protected] or click HERE  to learn more.”
And, there are other ways to help — for example, walking the Greyhounds in boarding and other tasks with great dogs. The appeal read, "We need more help on our TLC crew to get all the hounds in boarding walked regularly. Can you come out once a week (or more)? Email [email protected] or fill out the volunteer application HERE.
That beautifully glowing dogface (above) and the solemn one on the right both belong to Diesel, an Australian dog -- retired racer --who arrived in Texas last year. Diesel is also known as “King of Spaces.” You can see his bio and video on the galtx.org website. He’s described as a “white with black male born September 1, 2019. His sire is Head Bound and his dam is Just a Show. Diesel comes to GALT from Australia where he ran 16 races. Diesel will be tested for cat tolerance soon.”
[LARRY ASIDE: You’ll note that the photos (some from the video of Diesel on the GALT website, knows how to flop over and lounge in a dog bed. Years ago, at an animal adoption event on the square in Lancaster, south of Dallas, a guy with a Greyhound rescue group confided something like, “A lot of people think these dogs are running all the time, but the truth is they’re pretty good couch potatoes.”]
SOMETIMES IT’S THE TALES
THAT CATCH YOUR HEART….
Yeah, the tales, the tails, the barks, the great eyes, the happy faces, the joyous nature, the “so-happy-to-see-you” reaction. Here are some available adorable dogs in Mesquite — their stories are courtesy of the shelter’s volunteer dog biographer Debra Chisholm. Their predicaments are directly traced to their former humans. And remember this: During March, the Mesquite Animal Shelter canine adoption fee is just $20.
THE STORY OF KIARA: The basics are she’s a Lab mix who weighs 39 pounds, is about 7 months old, has been spayed. Here’s how Debra summarized Kiara’s latest life: “Her original intake date was 1/18. She was adopted on 2/3 and returned on 3/5. Reason stated for the surrender was that the adopter’s spouse insisted the dog be returned.”
How sweet is that!
The surrender form said Kiara “got along fine with their children (ages 6, 8,13,15). She does not like cats. Kiara is not house-trained. She has been taught the sit and shake commands. Adopter also stated that Kiara is a “normal, playful, sweet dog.” 
Debra also wrote, “In my original evaluation I wrote that this youngster is very high spirited and exhibits all the normal puppy behavior and that patience, perseverance and persistence would be needed to work through the puppy stage challenges. Hopefully her next adopter will take those words seriously and invest the time and effort in helping Kiara adjust to a new living situation and become a cherished member of the family.”
Kiara is #55126393 — cite that ID when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected]. Same system for all these Mesquite animals — ID number is the key to communication.
THE STORY OF ACE? Debra says he’s mixed-breed pup surrendered on March 5 — a year old, weighs 49 pounds and is neutered. Ace’s ID is #55471999. So, why is he in a city shelter?
Debra writes, “Stated reason for the surrender is that the couple is having a baby. Information written on the surrender form is as follows: Ace lived as an inside dog, he is house-trained, he lived with other dogs and was OK with them and he lived with a 5-month-old and was fine with the child. He has been taught the sit, paw, and stay commands. He does not like cats. I found this evaluation especially difficult.
“The family has had Ace since he was a puppy. He is obviously very attached to them, and most of the time I spent with him, he whined, paced and scratched at the door. It is obvious he is distraught at being left at the shelter and is missing them.”
Remember, use his ID #55471999 when you contact the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected].
THE STORY OF LILY? Debra reports she was picked up by one of the Mesquite Animal Services officers and brought in on March 3. “My Dog Scanner app identifies Anatolian Shepherd and Lab/Retriever in her breed mix. Lily weighs 49 pounds, is about 2 1/2 years old, and is spayed. She needs to gain a few extra pounds in order to be at a healthy weight.
“She has either been out on her own for a while or her owners have not fed her properly. I found this girl to be delightful and with such a well-mannered, calm and gentle spirit. She is understandably nervous and uneasy in the shelter environment. … Her tail was tucked when we first interacted. But she warmed up, and as she got to know me a bit better and was sweetness itself! … We will spend more time with her, hoping to help her feel more comfortable in the shelter environment in preparation for her forever home.”
Lily’s shelter ID is #55460486.
And, as you may recall, you can see the Mesquite Shelter’s adorable adoptables by clicking on the shelter website.
Not only will you find dogs with hard-luck tales and adorable personalities, but you’ll find cats. In keeping with the space theme of 2024, this cat is Eclipse — we’ve mentioned him before (he’s still #55212692 in the shelter). Small, black Domestic Shorthair Mix who arrived on Feb. 2, is available and can be seen in, appropriately, the Cat Room. [LARRY NOTE: Not sure how old he is — he’d apparently misplaced his driver’s license. I’m kidding. It’s rare that you find a cat licensed to drive.]
ANOTHER STEP FORWARD
FOR LITTLE GUY MOONEY
We keep tracking Mooney, this cute Frenchie fellow, because he’s a puppy who appears to be working hard to defeat every medical obstacle he encounters.
His pal Kimberly Jones, the veteran animal rescuer and advocate, has been carefully leading him on a path to medical success ever since she discovered him in a “Free puppy” note on a neighborhood bulletin.
She feared his medical problems would overwhelm anybody without experience with challenging puppies and stepped in to save the little guy’s life.
Mooney has several challenges with his health. The latest report came from his Thursday medical visit.
Kimberly reported, “Mooney saw the ophthalmologist today... Mooney's prognosis is guarded that he will regain his sight. Dr. Munger wants to see what the MRI shows... He will be in direct contact with the neurologist and then after the MRI, we will go back to see Dr. Munger. He did say that Mooney's brain is still developing and now that he's being taken care of and getting proper nutrition, he could regain sight on his own... I choose to believe this will happen. All of his vets (Metro Paws, Dr. Munger and the neurologist) will be in contact with each other so that Mooney has the best outcome for whatever is found during the MRI/spinal tap. It is scheduled for the 19th.”
Kimberly has set up a GoFundMe page for Mooney — his medical challenges are nowhere near “routine.” Here is the link: https://gofund.me/b5dbcce6
At that site you can read bulletins about Mooney’s progress and also see videos of the little guy romping with his much bigger friend, Kimberly’s “big brown dog” Apache. There are two links to Mooney being a puppy for the camera:
https://photos.app.goo.gl/uABwDB4GikfXbtn68
https://photos.app.goo.gl/L4Ep1rugnNC5sYpu9
CONTEMPLATIONS
A CAT, A DOG & THE THEATER
We’ll start with the theater. Outside of the years and years I’ve watched the Dallas City Council at work, I’ve found nothing in the Metroplex as consistently entertaining as the Pegasus Theatre productions, particularly those with the character Harry Hunsacker, the “detective and would-be actor” who headlines the “Living Black & White” stage productions and, currently, the RadioVizion production of The Color of Death!, a “vintage radio comedy” running through March 23 at the Bath House Cultural Center, 521 E. Lawther in Dallas.
The Pegasus summary of the show reads, “Come join us for another thrilling RadioVizion production of a Harry Hunsacker adventure! You’ll feel like a member of the studio audience in a live radio broadcast of the 1930s and 40s, complete with live sound effects! Don’t miss this family-friendly opportunity to watch and hear Harry and his pals combat the forces of evil once again!”
Kurt Kleinmann, the writer, developing the Living Black & White stage productions made famous by Pegasus. He also was the original Harry Hunsacker and played him for decades-worth of shows and has returned as Harry for this :radio version” of heroic Harry Hunsacker. Go to pegasustheatre.org to read about the production and buy tickets. — you won’t be bankrupted. ….
Earlier this week I took my primary office companion, the Senior Office Cat William Powell to his personal veterinarian to get his ears checked. All worked out great. He’s such a good boy. Yes, that’s is William overflowing out of the carrier he’s used since he was a delicate kitten maybe half-a-year old. He’s such a gentleman. He allowed me to ease his bulk into the carrier and zip it up. He was a load to carry. Later, as we were checking out at the front desk, William was in his carrier on the floor next to me, when a fellow walked in with a darling little Maltese girl — full-grown, she was. “How much does your dog weigh?” I asked, and the gentleman replied with a grin, “Seven pounds.” And one of my pals on the staff exclaims, “William outweighs her by 10 pounds!” Thus, ladies and gents, that’s what it looks like to put a 17-pound cat into a carrier that would be comfortable for a 7-pound dog. William Powell, Office Cat, 17-pounds of feline intellect. Yeah, he’s on a diet now. That’s two of us.
—- Offer diet tips or favorite songs by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] and put “YOU CAN FIT INTO A CARRIER WITH THAT CAT, SLIM” in the subject line. —

WEATHER IN THE AIR AS TIME MARCHES ON AND WE CITE SOME ANIMALS IN NEED

EDITION OF THURSDAY/FRIDAY MARCH 7-8, 2024 [PetPowellPress] First, I apologize for that headline, but you can't start every day off with the words: "HEY, ADOPT THESE DOGS AND CATS AND BE KIND TO ANIMAL OR GET THE HECK OUTTA TEXAS." That's the hidden secret message each day, of course.
What a great morning of weather in our neighborhood on Thursday: Winds not too strong; rain not too heavy; sun dimmed by thick clouds … It’s a reminder that springtime is on the way — but first we all become temporally — and temporarily — disoriented at 2 a.m. Sunday the10th. Ah, all that careful timing you have helped your critters embrace and suddenly you “spring forward” and upend their universe.
And, of course, as you probably know, Spring arrives at 10:06 p.m. Texas time on March 19 — a Tuesday. That’s, like,
“way off,” right?
What’s with the birds? That was early in the week on a big-store parking lot as I approached my car to unload the cart.
A parking lot resident atop my care asked, ”Hey, human, got anything in that basket I might be interested in?” I held up a box of cat treats and he bird-muttered some words I didn’t understand but got the drift of and he flew off to another car to chat with his bird palson a van. [LARRY ASIDE: That’s how I remember it as of this writing, but I may be retelling a nocturnal re-make of Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds. No wonder I’m an insomniac. My rewritten screenplays keep me awake. Like the one about the giant shark that bites my prize 1999 pickup in half. I call it “Jawstroplex.”]
NOW, ABOUT THE PUPPIES
DUMPED IN A TUB IN A FW PARK
“Update on the Tub Puppies” — sounds like a movie mystery on cable's Hallmark channel, doesn’t it?
The update on the Fort Worth tub pups was posted by the veteran animal rescuer/advocate Monica “Mo” Ailey-Welborn on her Facebook page. She’s president/co-founder and animal cruelty investigator at Animal Investigation & Response. And she posed with these totally cute puppies.
Mo’s report reads, “Some piece of poop of a person dumped them in a recycling tub at a park! The puppies also had flea and tick friends with them! Thank you to Legacy Humane Society for accepting them into your program! You da bomb!”
Mo also writes, “We all love happy endings for pups like this but none of it is possible w/o resources….please consider a donation to help Legacy Humane with getting the Tub Puppies vetted! Thank you.”
That Legacy Humane Society LINK IS HERE.
And Mo The Investigator also notes, “The tub did not have any type of serial number on it to track it back to the owner.”
ONE MORE QUICK NOTE
ABOUT HELPERS DOGS…
The 4-Legged Helpers continue to try to find a home for these two dogs, Bailey (the Shepherd-looking pup) and Brenn.
We’ve written about them before, so scroll down to get their bios from an earlier edition. To ask about them, call or text 214-949-2726 or 972-897-4926 or email [email protected].
They’ve been waiting a while to find a good, safe, loving places to land after their adventure in being “unwanted.”

A FEW MORE WAITING
IN MESQUITE ADOPTION
PROGRAM: $20 IN MARCH
We learned about these pups because the Mesquite Animal Services folks have an energetic volunteer program and people who love to meet the animals and write about them.
We’re going to give you the brief version of the bios here, but if you go to THIS SHELTER LINK  
you can see the whole bio and learn a little more about the animals.

We’ll begin with two bios written by volunteer Debra Chisholm, then look at two bios by volunteer Judi Brown. And we’ll finish with a cat
note.
This first pup is Pippa, described by Debra as a “mixed breed youngster that arrived at the Mesquite Animal Shelter on 10/23/2023,”
Debra also writes, “She communicated to me that she is ready to move on with her life! She weighs 43 pounds and is about 14 months old. Pippa is spayed. My Dog Scanner app indicates she is a mixed breed with perhaps Thai Ridgeback and Canaan Dog in the mix. This is one turbo- charged youngster!”
The congenial pup “loves treats and takes them politely,” Debra writes., adding, “She is friendly and a-OK with receiving loving attention. She would require daily exercise, playtime and enrichment, and is willing to learn some commands. She has no desire to live outside as a backyard dog.”
(Remember, click on the shelter link to read the whole biography.)
Debra named this “attractive and sweet-natured youngster Aurora. She is a mixed breed—primarily Siberian Husky. Aurora is an approximately 1- 1 1/2 years old youngster, weighing 54 pounds. She arrived at the shelter on 2/29. She has the softest fur and the most beautiful blue eyes! There is so much to like about this girl. She has a calm and gentle demeanor, and is well behaved. She doesn’t jump on you. She is friendly and more than happy to receive loving attention. She stood quite still, while I stroked her back and didn’t move until I stopped. She jumped up on the bench next to me, and just snuggled and cuddled.  It is inconceivable to me that this precious girl’s owner has not come looking for her.” Aurora is #55446136 at the shelter. Remember cite the ID numbers when calling the shelter at 972-216-6283 or emailing [email protected].
Judi Brown begins her bio of this dog with: “Gigi is asking WHY? She wants to know why she’s been at the shelter for five months now. She’s asking you to imagine how difficult it would be for you to be confined in a small space with people going by your kennel daily. With each passerby, she gets her hopes up only to be let down! Gigi is a handsome 15 month pup with a fluffy shiny coat. She’s a mixed breed. My Dog Scanner said she’s part Belgium Shepherd/Lab mix. She weighs approximately 40 pounds. She was brought in on 10/19/2023 as a stray. When she first came in she was active, but now the kennel stress is getting to her! If you could’ve seen her out in the yard, running and leaping with abandon on the benches and other play equipment, it was as though she was shouting, ‘I’m free! I’m free to run and stretch my legs.’ She would do well with an active family with a yard. … If you are an active family and are willing to put in some time playing and training this handsome girl, you will be rewarded with a loyal, lifetime companion!”  Gigi’s ID # is 54626937 — cite it when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected].
Judi also provided the info on Glory (#55444831) and opened the bio this way: “If you know anything about

Australian Cattle Dog/Blue Heelers, you know that they are smart dogs. Glory is no exception! She is 3 years old and
weighs 37 pounds. She was brought in to the Mesquite Animal Shelter as a stray by a concerned citizen. She’s a pretty girl and I thought she would look even prettier in a red scarf but agreed to the ‘wearing of the green’ when I told her it would send a message that she wanted to be in a loving home before St. Patrick’s Day.  … Because she’s highly motivated by treats, and because Australian cattle dogs are known to be intelligent she should learn quickly. She’s curious and alert running to the gate every time there was a commotion. She was just checking things out! She occasionally gently jumps on you for a hug followed by kisses….She’s very sweet and affectionate. She stays close and loves to have her ears scratched. … She would love to watch Animal Planet with you curled up at your feet or on a blanket on the couch next to
you. She promises to be a good girl!”
And, yep, same system for Glory as for the other dogs and for this cat, too. Cite the ID number when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email rescues@ cityofmesquite.com.
The “Animals in the Shelter” link is HERE . In addition to more dogs, you’ll see cats including this one.
Sophia (#55201644) is a 5-year-old girl — small and grey — who has been in the shelter since Feb. 21. She’s available for visiting in the Cat Room. She’s spayed. And she is that rarest of animals in so many homes, a Domestic Shorthair Mix.
CONTEMPLATIONS
RARE CATS AND OTHER NOTES
I kiddingly and perhaps inaccurately describe Domestic Shorthair Mixes as “extremely rare cats” but, of course, if you don’t have one, then, yes, that is an “extremely rare” cat where you live. At readlarrypowell.com, we are accustomed to the magic of Domestic Shorthair Mixes. Have been for decades, though you never quite get used to them — If you own something (a chair, a couch, a desk, a pantry), they own it. I’m not scientific about this, but my belief is the Domestic Shorthair Mixes taught all other cats to possess whatever their human has.
Yes, the Domestic Shorthair Cat is designed perfectly for companionship — if you can raise yourself up to their standards. I speak as a person who lives with at least two of them, Senior Office Cat William Powell (right) my patientwithahusbandspouse Martha’s dear companion Esme.
William was maybe 3 months old in 2018 when he wandered up as I was on a ladder painting the wood trim on our previous home in Oak Cliff. He looked up at me and said, “Look’s like you need some help, Bub” and I hired him on the spot and he became Office Cat William Powell.
That second cat, photographed while glaring at me as she lounged in literatefunspouse Martha’s lap, is Esme — like Cher, just needs one name. Esme was one of our feral colony kittens at that house — we took her in back in 2012 — she was “easily trapped, spayed, released in the house to be a guardian of all things congenial.” FYI: William and Esme refuse to discuss two topics: Their family trees (their branches may cross) and presidential politics.
— Offer ideas that elevate humankind by clicking on ‘comment’ below or by emailing [email protected] and use the subject line: STOP LISTENING TO ‘60s PEACE SONGS. (I won’t, but you can type it, anyway.] —-

IN A TECHNOPANIC, WE PUBLISH A LONG, LONG EDITION ABOUT HELPING ANIMALS

EDITION OF TUESDAY. MARCH 5/WEDNESDAY MARCH 6, 2024 [PetPowellPress] Welcome to Super Tuesday. Voters in all participating states will get a free puppy and kitten with each vote cast.
And, of course, Facebook is down as this is being typed — eliminates some of the options at readlarrypowell.com. So, we’re publishing what we’ve got — this might be long. [It’s like the old days of hot-type journalism when we’d encounter a power failure and none of the electric typewriters would work and the phones were dead.]
OK, let’s see what we’ve got today…..wait. That’s a free cat — I didn’t “pay a thing” for him. I got him out of a mimosa tree. He’s Stevie Ray Treeboy, who, since being taken into our home as a kitten in 2019, has loved teaching his “SLEEP UPSIDE DOWN AND RELAX’ class at a local public library and country club — we hoping to get him a class load in local colleges so he can help young students. He also teaches athletes — Keglers say the “differently thinking” helps them focus on their spares.
EXPECTING (PUPPIES) BUT
ALSO HOPING FOR A HOME…
We got the tip on this girl Vivian from Debra Chisholm, volunteer dog-writer at Mesquite Animal Services. But those volunteers do more than just write the stories. They’re hands on. (FYI: In March, the Mesquite dog adoption fee is $20, according to our shelter tipsters. And, Vivian is “rescue only,” for now. Pregnant, you know.)
On Monday, Debra reported, “I hung out with Viv this afternoon…and she is such a sweet and lovable girl.”
Vivian is #55372917 at the shelter and Debra’s bio of this girl reads, “You aren't likely to find a sweeter, gentler or more loving dog than Vivian.  She arrived at the Mesquite Animal Shelter on 2/17 — picked up as a stray.  Vivian is approx 3 years old and weighs 52 pounds.  My Dog Scanner app suggests the following in her breed mix:  Australian Kelpie, Manchester Terrier and Lapponian Herder.”
Here’s the thing: “Viv is RESCUE ONLY due to the … vet confirmation that she is very pregnant.  In fact, it appears she will deliver fairly soon.  We already have two mother dogs and their pups at the shelter.  Needless to say, a city shelter is not the ideal place for the birthing and care of young pups.”
And Debra adds, “Viv is sweet, calm, gentle and has a mellow personality.  She is loving and will come to you and snuggle close for pets and to be loved on.  One look into her beautiful eyes and you will fall in love!  She walks nicely on a leash.  She may well be house-trained. She appears to have been well-cared for and yet that owner has not coming looking for this precious girl.  I can't state more in the affirmative that Vivian is a sweet and gentle soul and badly needs a loving and caring home environment in which to birth and care for her pups.”
To ask about helping Viv, cite her ID #55372917 when you call the shelter at 972-216-5283 or email [email protected].
Volunteer dog biographer Jamie Dotson tipped us to this Mesquite resident, Cassie. She’s a 2-year-old described by the shelter as a “Perro de Peas Canario/Terrier Pitfall mix…”. The 49-pounder came in as a stray on Feb. 26. And Jamie writes, “She appears to have been well cared for yet her family has not come to reclaim her so she is up for adoption. She has a calm and gentle soul. The more time she spends with you, the more of a spark of excitement she has being with you. She loves to lay on a dog bed to be comfy and cozy, tho hasn't shown any interest in toys yet. She walks well on a leash and takes treats gently .… She has a gentle loving soul and would make a great family companion. Having a secured backyard to play in, but live inside where she can cuddle close to her human companions. That's what this beautiful girl deserves in a loving family.” Cassie is #5542035.
And Baron (#53984359) is a 2-year-old, neutered Lab mix (perhaps with Catahoula) — he weighs in at 58 pounds. Baron came in as a stray on AUGUST 18, 2023. Jamie’s bio of Baron reads, “Baron loves to go for walks and enjoys every smell he encounters. He doesn’t want to miss a thing! He has a happy go lucky personality, well behaved and knows the sit command. He walks well on a leash and takes treats gently. Baron enjoys being petted and loved on too. He will lean into you to be close. When we went into a room with a dog bed and toys he made himself comfortable with a big smile on his face. He would love to find his own forever family where he has a secured backyard to play in, but come back inside to cuddle on his own dog bed, or on the couch to watch your favorite tv shows. He would make a great family companion, one to take walks with, or hikes.”
Siblings show up in the “stray statistics”, too, at Mesquite Animal Services.
Our pal Debra Chisholm, volunteer dog-writer, hands-on canine evaluator, has provided the photos and bios of siblings Morris and Missy and delicate girl “China.”
As you can see, Morris (lounging, right) and Missy are clearly kin.
Morris is #54458205 and Missy is #54458303. As you probably know, cite the ID numbers when you call the shelter at 972-216-6283 or email [email protected].
Morris and Missy came in as strays on September 22. Yes, way back in autumn, almost before stores installed there Christmas decorations.
Both are a year-and-a-half old, Morris weighs 54 pounds and Missy weighs 33 pounds.
Debra writes, “The most important thing to know about Morris is that he is a big love bug! He is affectionate, a lapdog wannabe, gives kisses and snuggles and is crazy about belly rubs. He loves walks and exploring the outside world, and though he does walk on a leash and is making progress, he needs additional leash training. He will sit for treats and does take them politely. He has a high energy level and will need a home in which he will be given daily playtime, exercise, and enrichment in order to fit in well with his new people. … Morris absolutely positively wants to live inside with his people so that he can be a cherished part of the family. A shelter volunteer who has spent time with Morris and sings his praises, has sponsored his adoption.”
And what of dark-eyed, Earhoun sister Missy? Debra writes that Missy is “ready to walk out the front door and leave the shelter life behind. She is a delightful and charming girl that is lively, active and alert. She loves treats and takes him gently.  She’s a playful, a tail-wagging, fun-loving, high-spirited youngster. Missy loves treats and takes them gently.  She walks nicely on a leash and loves to run and play in the shelter yard. Unfortunately she and her brother have not had much opportunity to get outside in the yard.  She is friendly and happy to receive loving attention…once she slows down. When it’s time to come in from the yard and return to her kennel, she likes to play “keep away from the leash” and will lead you on a merry chase until you prevail! This lovable girl has a sweet personality and nature, and has been at the shelter for too long. She needs daily playtime, exercise and enrichment and will thrive when she receives that in her new forever home.”
That brings us to Debra’s report on China (#54458303), Why “China”? Debra’s explanation: “Named because of her delicate China doll appearance.”

And get this story: China is an American Pit Bull mix who was brought to the shelter on Feb. 28 “due to having been abandoned by her owners.”
Yes, this 2-year-old was emaciated, weighing only 31 pounds. And, Debra wrote, “She has urine stains on her back legs, feet and hindquarters. Her nails are extremely long. She appears to have been badly cared for and neglected. Today she got a bath and had her nails clipped, and she seemed so much more comfortable. She came in fearful and nervous, but once she interacted with a couple of volunteers, she warmed up and was quite loving and wanting attention. She does walk nicely on a leash. She loves treats and will sit for them. China is on a feeding schedule in order to help her gain a more healthy weight. She is friendly, affectionate, wants to climb on your lap and seeks out loving attention.”
Adopt her for $20 and give her a real home forever.
See more adorable adoptables at this Mesquite Animal Shelter link:
https://www.cityofmesquite.com/3706/Animals-In-Shelter .
Among the adorable adoptables? This big ol’ (medium-sized) sweetheart #47919634, also known as Otis. He’s about 3 1/2 years old. Came in on Feb. 12 and you can find him waiting for you in the Mesquite Animal Services Conference Room. [LARRY ASIDE: All cats can teach humans how to confer. Their motto is “Confer ’n’ Concur.” Precedes a meal.]
4-LEGGED HELPERS WORK
TO SAVE SMALL ’N’. BIG TOWN PUPS
Bailey and Brenn continue to avoid being adopted! Inexplicable, we’d declare. But the folks with 4-Legged Helpers keep working on their behalf.
This polite female Anatolian Shepherd Mix is Bailey, found “out and about on her own in Waxahachie.” The person who found her has been teaching her how to behave and live in a house. “She is absolutely adorable. Great with kids. Great with all
other dogs. House-trained, kennel-trained, doggy door-trained, too.”
And that brings us to Brent, a “young, spayed female Aussie/Bulldog mix …found out and about in Fort Worth.” And now, she’s on the radar of 4 Legged Helpers. Brent is “fixed,” house-trained and crate-trained. Just needs someone to love,” the 4-Legged Helpers declare.
To ask about helping these dogs or any other animal on the “help-‘em” lists of the 4-Legged Healers, call or text 214-949-2726 or 972-897-4926 or email [email protected].
DUMPED IN A TUB
IN A FW PARK
We got this off a post on Monica Alley-Welborn’s Facebook page (when Facebook was working again). Thank you, Monica, for posting this.
Her post explains, “DUMPED IN A TUB IN PARK. These 3 Puppies are in need of rescue asap to avoid going to the local municipal shelter. These babies need a hero!! Located in Fort Worth.”
Click on this FACEBOOK link — https://www.facebook.com/mo.ailey — and you post a message for helping the puppies. [LARRY NOTE: Remember, FW’s city shelters are really crowded and more puppies is the last thing those good folks need.]
CONTEMPLATIONS
THE TUB DOGS AND OTHER NOTES
This TUB-PUPPY PHOTO (a) charmed your ol’ puppy-lovin’ typer Larry and (b) ticked him off fiercely because I thought humanity had moved beyond such things as dumping a tub of puppies in a city park.
I’m kidding. I always expect the worse of humanity — except in the hearts of dog and cat rescuers and other animal people!
Anyway, I thought this dumping of litters was something that only happened years ago when I was exercising on the walking track in Kiest Park in Dallas’ Oak Cliff. Hah. I got my wonderful dogs Inky (The Cocker Laureate of Texas), Rosie (the Chihuahua), abandoned purebred Rottie Texas Earl the Cheeseman and my big ol’ Great Dane/Lab Mix, called “Hammy” but officially “Hambone Jack, the Canine King of the Blues.” They all came from the park where they’d been dumped. Earl was still waiting under the tree where he'd been left.
It still makes me have one of those cry-baby contractions of the gullet and dripping tears when I think of them and how we came to love them.
When I look at those three little dumped-in-a-park puppies, I see a variety of canine faces, big dogs and little pups with wagging tails, except for Inky, whose tail was barely long enough to wag. He always said that non-regulation tail was what kept him out of the winner’s circle at Westminster.
To the person who dumped the three pups? You could have dumped them in worse places — I’ll give you that much credit. But the fact that you dumped them at all is going to mean that you may need a pretty danged good legal team when the roll is called Up Yonder, pilgrim. (I’ll give you my lawyer’s business card. I’ll need a team of lawyers, too — for reasons other than your animal idiocy.)
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