One Mother's Plea
By WinPuf

Already I am a mother,
I am nearly all of two years old,
So far I have had ten off spring,
Soon to be more...I am told.

From too many hungry mouths to feed,
I saw a sign in my doctor's room,
Please family, this is what I need.

They carried my last sweet youngins
Off in an ugly big wooden box,
Why do I need to do this again?
While my heart bleeds and still I'm in shock!

Where are my sweet loving children?
Buried dead in the cold ground or worse?
This pain to my spirit and body,
Makes of my life a curse.

Not long ago, I too was a puppy,
All cuddly, soft and new born,
Life held wonderful promise back then,
For those warm playful days I now mourn.

I grieve in silence, lonesome and alone,
For me there IS a more humane way,
Please, let us go back to my doctor's place,
And ask them to do a spay!

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Alone Again

Author Unknown

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The Ten Commandments for Pet Owners (Guardians)

1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you will be very painful.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.

3. Place your trust in me - it is crucial for my well-being.

4. Don't be angry with me for long, and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment. I only have you!

5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I understand your voice when it's speaking to me.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I'll never forget it.

7. Before you hit me, remember I have teeth that could easily crush the bones in your hand, but I choose not to bite you.

8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I've been out in the hot sun too long, or my heart may be getting old and weak.

9. Take care of me when I get old. You, too, will grow old.

10. Go with me on difficult journeys. Never say, "I can't bear to watch it" or, "Let it happen in my absence." Everything is easier for me if you are there.

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Ugly Cat

Everyone in the apartment complex I lived in knew who Ugly was. Ugly was the resident tomcat. Ugly loved three things in this world: fighting, eating garbage, and, shall we say, love.

The combination of these things combined with a life spent outside had their effect on Ugly. To start with, he had only one eye and where the other should have been was a hole. He was also missing his ear on the same side, his left foot appeared to have been badly broken at one time, and had healed at an unnatural angle, making him look like he was always turning the corner. Ugly would have been a dark gray tabby, striped type, except for the sores covering his head, neck, and even his shoulders

Every time someone saw Ugly there was the same reaction. "That's one UGLY cat!!!"

All the children were warned not to touch him, the adults threw rocks at him, hosed him down, squirted him when he tried to come in their homes, or shut his paws in the door when he would not leave. Ugly always had the same reaction.

If you turned the hose on him, he would stand there, getting soaked until you gave up and quit. If you threw things at him, he would curl his lanky body around your feet in forgiveness.

Whenever he spied children, he would come running, meowing frantically and bump his head against their hands, begging for their love.

If you ever picked him up he would immediately begin suckling on your shirt, earrings, whatever he could find.

One day Ugly shared his love with the neighbor's dogs. They did not respond kindly, and Ugly was badly mauled. I tried to rush to his aid. By the time I got to where he was laying, it was apparent Ugly's sad life was almost at an end.

As I picked him up and tried to carry him home, I could hear him wheezing and gasping, and could feel him struggling. It must be hurting him terribly, I thought.

Then I felt a familiar tugging, sucking sensation on my ear. Ugly, in so much pain, suffering and obviously dying, was trying to suckle my ear. I pulled him closer to me, and he bumped the palm of my hand with his head, then he turned his one golden eye towards me, and I could hear the distinct sound of purring.

Even in the greatest pain, that ugly battled scarred cat was asking only for a little affection, perhaps some compassion.

At that moment I thought Ugly was the most beautiful, loving creature I had ever seen. Never once did he try to bite or scratch me, try to get away from me, or struggle in any way. Ugly just looked up at me completely trusting in me to relieve his pain.

Ugly died in my arms before I could get inside, but I sat and held him for a long time afterwards, thinking about how one scarred, deformed little stray could so alter my opinion about what it means to have true pureness of spirit, to love so totally and truly.

Ugly taught me more about giving and compassion than a thousand books, lectures, or talk show specials ever could, and for that I will always be thankful. He had been scarred on the outside, but I was scarred on the inside, and it was time for me to move on and learn to love truly and deeply. To give my total to those I cared for.

Many people want to be richer, more successful, well liked, beautiful, but for me...
I will always try to be Ugly.

Author Unknown

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Rescue Me

Dedicated to People in Rescue

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I Found Your Dog Today

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Am I Famous Now?

I was born today. One of 10.

My daddy is very famous. I have lots of half brothers and sisters. My mother is very famous. Since she got famous, she has only had puppies. No more loving hands, no more fun trips - just puppies. She is always sad when they leave her.

I left home today. I didn't want to go, so I hid behind my mama and my three litter mates that were left. I didn't like you. But one day they said I would be famous. I wonder; is famous the same as fun and good times? So you picked me up and carried me away, even though you were concerned about me hiding from you. I don't think you like me.

My new home is far away. I am scared and afraid. My heart says BE BRAVE. My ancestors were. Did they go to good homes like mine? I'm hungry because I can't eat too much because it will be bad for my bones. I can't bite or snap when the children are mean to me. I just run and play and pretend I am in a big green field with butterflies and robins and frogs.

I can't understand why they kick me. I am quiet, but the man hits and says loud things. The lady doesn't feed me good things like I had with my mother.  She just throws dry food on the ground, then goes away before I can get too close for touching and petting. Sometimes my food smells bad but I eat it anyway.

Today I had 10 puppies. They are so wonderful and warm. Am I famous now? I wish I could play with them, but they are so tiny. I am so young and playful that it is hard to lay here in this hole under the house nursing my puppies.. They are crying now. I am so hungry. I scratch and worry my fur. I wish someone would throw me some food. I am also very thirsty.

I now have eight. Two got cold during the night and I couldn't make them warm again. They are gone. We are all very weak. Maybe if I take them out on the porch, we can get some food.

Today they took us away. It was too much trouble to feed us and someone came to take us away. Someone grabbed my puppies, they were crying and whimpering. We were put in a truck with boxes in it. Are my babies famous now? I hope so, because I miss them. They are gone.

The place smelled of urine, fear and sickness. Why was I here? I was beautiful, like my ancestors. Now I am hungry, dirty, in pain and unwanted. Maybe the worst is unwanted. No one came though I tried to be good.

Today someone came. They put a rope on my neck and led me to a room that was very clean and had a shiny table. They put me on the table. Someone hugged me. It felt so good!!! Then I felt tired and laid over the last one who cared.

I AM FAMOUS NOW...

Today someone cared.

Author Unknown

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A Parting Prayer

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Old Dogs Do Not Die

--Author Unknown

My Last Breath

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One By One

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A Dog's Soul

Every dog must have a soul
Somewhere deep inside
Where all his hurts and grievances
Are buried with his pride.
Where he decides the good and bad,
The wrong way from the right,
And where his judgment carefully
Is hidden from our sight.
A dog must have a secret place
Where every thought abides,
A sort of close acquaintance that
He trusts in and confides.
And when accused unjustly for
Himself, He cannot speak,
Rebuked, He finds within his soul
The comfort he must seek.
He'll love, tho he is unloved,
And he'll serve tho badly used,
And one kind word will wipe away
The times when he's abused.
Altho his heart may break in two
His love will still be whole,
Because God gave to every dog
An understanding Soul!

Author Unknown

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Just an Old Tree

There is an old plum tree in my side yard that only has a limb or two that gets leaves during the year. The last time my mom was here she asked why I didn't just cut it down...after all, its just an old tree that doesn't have much to offer anymore. There is no fruit from it and its not pretty to look at. Why not just plant a new one in its place?

I smiled at her and explained that even though it might not be obvious, the tree is enjoyed by many. The birds love to come and sit on its bare branches and because those branches are bare, I get to enjoy the birds from my bedroom window.  This morning is overcast and cool here. I was looking out my window at the flurry of activity in that tree.

There must have been 20 birds there in a five minute period, including two very sweet little hummingbirds. My tree seems to have become a local "hang out" spot, patiently standing and waiting for the next visitor to appear and offering a quiet place for its friends to rest.

We have shelties in our rescues who are like that tree - past the prime of their lives, unable to bear fruit, and sometimes their "leaves" aren't as full as they used to be - discarded by those who wanted to plant one more youthful in their place. They are all too quickly passed by in the search of a new family member by those who want a "young dog."

I think we are all guilty of getting caught up in the excitement of when we think of adding another furkid to our families we immediately think of pink bellies and puppy breath. We forget about the old ones out there who are sitting like that tree, patiently waiting for a visitor to sit down with them for a while, hold them, and tell them how wonderful they are.

It's time for us to look around us and see ALL the dogs who are out there needing a new family of their own. The majority of shelties in rescue are OLDER dogs and we are running out of room! There are only so many foster homes available to us.

Yes, we always seem to be able to squeeze in just one more, but wouldn't it be a wonderful thing if we actually KNEW we had room available for new dogs in need coming in?

I had my wake-up call with Sparkle. Yes I was already doing rescue to try and do something to give back to this breed I love. Yes I already had a foster here with my four permanent, healthy, young dogs. Yes I have said that FOUR would be my family limit (yeah right - before Merlin came along that number was THREE). Then came Sparkle....here was a skinny wee 11 year old dumped in a shelter in Nashville (thanks BE to Ann who snatched her up!) with a hole in her face, rotten teeth, and a severe heart murmur. Her face and teeth are taken care of and she proceeded to steal the hearts (and still does!) of anyone who came in contact with her on her journey south to our home. Here she STAYS! The Clan is careful of her in play and lets her have the choice spots to sleep. It's as though she has been here her whole life. Since getting started on her heart meds, she plays and romps like a puppy.  

Seniors may nap a little longer and move a little slower, but the love that shines from their eyes is ageless. Have you thought about adding a new furkid to your family? Right now there is a senior sitting someplace waiting for you, .waiting to give you more love than you can imagine. Let rescue help you find each other.  Time to get away from this keyboard...Sparkle and I are going to sit together and look out my window at a certain old tree...

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A Cat in My Lap

I know I have a lot to do,
So many things - see them through.
There are clothes to clean, grass to mow,
Cookies to bake, seeds to sow.
But I really can't do all these things in a snap
Because, you see, there's a cat in my lap.
He stretches and rolls and gives me a wink,
From his sleepy gold eyes - just a small blink.
I smooth his long tail and tickle his tummy,
He yawns and purrs to tell me that's yummy.
The telephone rings. The paper boy taps.
No move do I make. There's a cat in my lap.
Bright sunlight dances across the floor,
To warm my small friend just a bit more.
A happy prisoner am I in my chair -
Some moments of peace - not a care.
I think I'll take a little nap,
With this soft, furry ball, a cat in my lap.

Karen Boxell

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The original version of this tribute was written by Eugene O'Neill for his wife Carlotta, a few days before their Dalmatian passed away from old age in December, 1940. Please give credit to the author if you should pass this moving piece onto others in the future.

The Last Will & Testament of an Extremely Loved Dog

I, Silverdene Emblem O'Neill (familiarly known to my family, friends & acquaintances as Blemie), because the burden of my years and infirmities is heavy upon me, and I realize the end of my life is near, do hereby bury my last will and testament in the mind of my Master. He will not know it is there until after I am dead. Then, remembering me in his loneliness, he will suddenly know of this testament, and I ask him to inscribe it as a memorial to me.

I have little in the way of material things to leave. Dogs are wiser than men. They do not set great store upon things. They do not waste their days hoarding property. They do not ruin their sleep worrying about how to keep the objects they have, and to obtain objects they have not.

There is nothing of value I have to bequeath except my love and my loyalty.  These I leave to all those who have loved me, especially to my Master and Mistress, who I know will mourn me the most.  I ask my Master and my Mistress to remember me always, but not to grieve for me too long. In my life, I have tried to be a comfort to them in time of sorrow, and a reason for added joy in their happiness. It is painful for me to think that even in death I should cause them pain. Let them remember that while no dog has ever had a happier life (and this I owe to their love and care for me), now that I have grown blind and deaf and lame, and even my sense of smell fails me so that a rabbit could be right under my nose and I might not know, my pride has sunk to a sick, bewildered humiliation. I feel life is taunting me with having over lingered my welcome.

It is time I said good-bye, before I become too sick a burden on myself and on those who love me.  It will be a sorrow to leave them, but not a sorrow to die. Dogs do not fear death as men do. We accept it as part of life, not as something alien and terrible which destroys life. What may come after death, who knows?

I would like to believe that there is a Paradise. Where one is always young and full-bladdered. Where all the day one dillies and dallies. Where each blissful hour is mealtime. Where in the long evenings there are a million fireplaces with logs forever burning, and one curls oneself up and blinks into the flames and nods and dreams, remembering the old brave days on earth and the love of one's Master and Mistress.

I am afraid that this is too much for even such a dog as I am to expect. But peace, at least, is certain. Peace and a long rest for my weary old heart and head and limbs, and eternal sleep in the earth I have loved so well.

Perhaps, after all, this is best.

One last request, I earnestly make. I have heard my Mistress say, "When Blemie dies we must never have another dog. I love him so much I could never love another one". Now I would ask her, for love of me, to have another. It would be a poor tribute to my memory never to have a dog again. What I would like to feel is that, having once had me in the family, she cannot live without a dog! I have never had a narrow, jealous spirit. I have always held that most dogs are good. My successor can hardly be as well loved or as well mannered or as distinguished and handsome as I was in my prime. My Master and Mistress must not ask the impossible. But he will do his best, I am sure, and even his inevitable defects will help by comparison to keep my memory green.

To him I bequeath my collar and leash and my overcoat and raincoat He can never wear them with the distinction I did, all eyes fixed on me in admiration; but again I am sure he will do his utmost not to appear a mere gauche provincial dog. I hereby wish him the happiness I know will be his in my old home. One last word of farewell, dear Master and Mistress.

Whenever you visit my grave, say to yourselves with regret but also with happiness in your hearts at the remembrance of my long, happy life with you: "Here lies one who loved us and whom we loved". No matter how deep my sleep I shall hear you and not all the power of death can keep my spirit from wagging a grateful tail. I will always love you as only a dog can."

by Eugene O'Neill

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This Old Cat

I'm getting on in years;
my coat is turning grey.
My eyes have lost their luster;
my hearing's just okay.
I spend my whole day dreaming
of conquests in my past,
Lying near a sunny window,
waiting for its warm repast.
I remember our first visit;
I was coming to you free,
Hoping you would take me in
and keep me company.
I wasn't young or handsome;
two years I'd roamed the street.
There were scars upon my face;
I hobbled on my feet.
I could sense your disappointment
as I left my prison cage.
Oh, I hoped you would accept me
and look beyond my age.
You took me out of pity;
I accepted without shame.
Then you grew to love me,
and I admit the same.
I have shared with your laughter;
you have wet my fur with tears.
We've come to know each other
throughout these many years.
Just one more hug this morning
before you drive away;
And know I'll think about you
throughout your busy day.
The time we've left together
is a treasured time at that.
My heart is yours forever;
I promise.....This Old Cat.

KC Bingamon

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If Only Things Had of Been Different

I don't remember much from the place I was born. It was cramped and dark, and we were never played with by the humans. I remember Mom and her soft fur, but she was often sick, and very thin. She had hardly any milk for me and my brothers and sisters. I remember many of them dying, and I missed them so. I do remember the day I was taken from Mom. I was so sad and scared, my milk teeth had only just come in, and I really should have been with Mom still, but she was so sick, and the Humans kept saying that they wanted money and were sick of the "mess" that me and my sister made. So we were crated up and taken to strange place. Just the two of us.

We huddled together and were scared, still no human hands came to pet or love us.  So many sights and sounds, and smells! We are in a store where there are many different animals! Some that squawk! some that meow! Some that Peep!  My sister and I are jammed into a small cage, I hear other puppies here. I see humans look at me, I like the 'little humans', the kids. they look so sweet, and fun, like they would play with me! All day we stay in the small cage, sometimes mean people will hit the glass and frighten us, every once in a while we are taken out to be held or shown to humans. Some are gentle some hurt us, we always hear "Aw they are So cute! I want one!" but we never get to go with any.

My sister died last night, when the store was dark. I lay my head on her soft fur and felt the life leave her small thin body. I had heard them say she was sick, and that I should be sold as a "discount price" so that I would quickly leave the store. I think my soft whine was the only one that mourned for her as her body was taken out of the cage in the morning and dumped.

Today, a family came and bought me! Oh happy day! They are a nice family, they really, really wanted me! They had bought a dish and food and the little girl held me so tenderly in her arms. I love her so much! The mom and dad say what a sweet and good puppy I am! I am named Angel. I love to lick my new humans! The family takes such good care of me, they are loving and tender and sweet. They gentle teach me right and wrong, give me good food, and lots of love! I want only to please these wonderful people! I love the little girl and I enjoy running and playing with her.

Today I went to the veterinarian. it was a strange place and I was frightened. I got some shots, but my best friend the little girl held me softly and said it would be OK. So I relaxed. The Vet must have said sad words to my beloved family, because they looked awfully sad. I heard Severe hip dysplasia, and something about my heart... I heard the vet say something about, back yard breeders and my parents not being tested. I know not what any of that means, just that it hurts me to see my family so sad. but they still love me, and I still love them very much!

I am 6 months old now. Where most other puppies are robust and rowdy, It hurts me terribly just to move. The pain never lets up. It hurts to run and play with my beloved little girl, and I find it hard to breath. I keep trying my best to be the strong pup I know I am supposed to be, but it is so hard. it breaks my heart to see the little girl so sad, and to hear the Mom and Dad talk about "it might now be the time". Several times I have went to that veterinarians place, and the news is never good. Always  talk about Congenital Problems. I just want to feel the warm sunshine and run, and play and nuzzle with my family. Last night was the worst, Pain has been my constant now, it hurts even to get up and get a drink. I try to get up but can only whine in pain. I taken in the car one last time. Everyone is so sad, and I don't know why. have I been bad? I try to be good and loving, what have I done wrong? Oh if only this pain would be gone! If only I could soothe the tears of the little girl. I reach out my muzzle to lick her hand, but can only whine in pain. the veterinarians table is so cold. I am so frightened.

The humans all hug and love me, they cry into my soft fur. I can feel their love and sadness. I manage to lick softly their hands. Even the vet doesn't seem so scary today. he is gentle and I sense some kind of relief for my pain. The little girl hold me softly and I thank her, for giving me all her love. I feel a soft pinch in my foreleg. The pain is beginning to lift, I am beginning to feel a peace descend upon me. I can now softly lick her hand. My vision is becoming dreamlike now, and I see my Mother and my brothers and sisters, in a far off green place. They tell me there is no pain there, only peace and happiness. I tell the family, good-bye in the only way I know how, a soft wag of my tail and a nuzzle of my nose. I had hoped to spend many, many moons with them, but it was not meant to be. "You see,"  said the veterinarian "Petshop puppies do not come from ethical breeders." The pain ends now, and I know it will be many years until I see my beloved family again. If only things could have been different.

(This story may be published or reprinted in the hopes that it will stop unethical breeders and those who breed only for money and not for the betterment of the breed. Copyright 1999 J. Ellis)

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Do Trees Get in the Way?

Sometimes the forest grows up too thick, sometimes we get lost in the fog.

We forget that our primary purpose at shows is to have a good time with our dogs.

We get so involved in heeling and stays, teaching proper response to each call,

We forget that instead of retrieve on the flat they'd rather be chasing a ball.

We devote every effort to grooming their coat till it looks like a soft mohair rug.

It's aligned and it's puffed when the dog underneath would prefer a grand hair-mussing hug.

Our lives become busy, the club work complex with letters and meetings and talks.

No time for just sitting out under a tree or taking those long springtime walks.

It's true that our dogs get the time and the care that dogs not so show worthy might miss,

But is it time in the back of a van in a crate when they'd rather your lap and a kiss?

So don't let the forest or fog or the glory determine what is your dog's fate....

Take a walk in the clouds, give a hug, throw a stick---before you find out it's too late.

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Campaign Pledge Form

They are not our property,
We are not their owners.

Whereas, I believe that all animals deserve to be treated and respected as individuals with feelings, needs and interests of their own, and whereas I believe that animals are not commodities or property to be bought, sold, disposed of, or discarded, I hereby pledge always:

-to live my life with an ethic of respect and consideration for all animals, rather than one of ownership in which animals are considered mere property.

-to adopt and rescue rather than buy or sell animals.

-to represent myself as a caretaker, guardian, companion, or friend of animals rather than their owner or master.

-to strive at all times to make the world a more just and compassionate place for all beings, human and non-human alike.

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Happiness is  Journey

We convince ourselves that life will be better after we get married, have a baby, then another. Then we are frustrated that the kids aren't old enough and we'll be more content when they are. After that, we're frustrated that we have teenagers to deal with. We will certainly be happy when they are out of that stage! We tell ourselves that our life will be complete when our spouse gets his or her act together, when we get a nicer car, or when we are able to go on a nice vacation, or when we retire.

The truth is, there's no better time to be happy than right now.  If not now, when? Your life will always be filled with challenges. It's best to admit this to yourself and decide to be happy anyway. Happiness is the way. So treasure every moment you have and treasure it more because you shared it with someone special enough to spend your time with...and remember, time waits for no one.

So stop waiting...

until your car or home is paid off
until you get a new car or home
until your kids leave the house
until you go back to school
until you finish school
until you lose 10 pounds
until you gain 10 pounds
until you get married
until you get a divorce
until you have kids
until you retire
until summer
until spring
until winter
until fall.

There is no better time than right now to be happy. Happiness is a journey--not a destination.

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"To my mind the life of a lamb is no less precious than that  of a human being. I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it is to protection by man from the cruelty of man."

~Ghandi~

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A Hunter's Poem

A hunter shot a flock of geese that flew within his reach.  Two were stopped in their rapid flight and fell on the sandy beach.  The male bird lay at the water's edge and just before he died, 
He faintly called to his wounded mate and she  dragged herself to his side.
She bent her head and crooned to him in a way distressed and wild,
Caressing her one and only mate as a mother would a child.
Then covering him with her broken wing and gasping with failing breath,
She laid her head against his breast, a feeble honk...then death.
This story is true, though crudely told. I was the man in this case.
I stood knee-deep in snow and cold, and the hot tears burned my face.
I buried the birds in the sand where they lay, wrapped in my hunting coat.
And I threw my gun and belt in the bay, when I crossed in the open boat.
Hunters will call me a right poor sport and scoff at the thing I did,
But that day something broke in my heart, and shoot again?
God forbid.

by Lemuel Ward

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A Prayer for the Animals

Hear our prayer O Lord ... for animals that are overworked, underfed, and cruelly treated; for all wistful creatures in captivity that beat their wings against bars; for any that are hunted or lost or deserted or frightened or hungry; for all that must be put to death.... And for those who deal with them we ask a heart of compassion and gentle hands and kindly words.

- Albert Schweitzer

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My Name is Sam

On the first day of "Speech" class our professor explained to us that he was going to leave the subject manner of our talks up to us, but he was going to provide the motivation of the speech. We would be responsible for six speeches, each with a different motivation. For instance our first speech's purpose was to inform. He advised us to pick subjects that we were interested in and knowledgeable about. I decided to center my six speeches around animals especially dogs.

Finally the semester was almost over and I had but one more speech to give. This speech was to take the place of a written final exam and was to count for fifty per cent of our grade. The speech's motivation was to persuade.

After agonizing over a subject matter, and keeping with my animal theme, I decided on the topic of spaying and neutering pets. My goal was to try to persuade my classmates to neuter their pets. So I started researching the topic.

There was plenty of material, articles that told of the millions of dogs and cats that were euthanised every year, of supposedly beloved pets that were turned in to various animal control facilities for the lamest of reason, or worse dropped off far from home, bewildered and scared. Death was usually a blessing.

A couple of days before our speeches were due, I had the bright idea of going to the local branch of the Humane Society and borrowing a puppy to use as a sort of a visual aid. I called the Humane Society and explained what I wanted. They were very happy to accommodate me. I made arrangements to pick up a puppy the day before my speech. The day before my speech, I went to pick up the puppy. I was feeling very confident. I could quote all the statistics and numbers without ever looking at my notes. The puppy, I felt, would add the final emotional touch. When I arrived at the Humane Society I was met by a young guy, named Ron. He explained that he was the public relations person for the Humane Society. He was very excited about my speech and asked if I would like a tour of the facilities before I picked up the puppy. I enthusiastically agreed.

We started out in the reception area, which was the general public's initial encounter with the Humane Society. The lobby was full, mostly with people dropping off various animals that they no longer wanted. Ron explained to me that this branch of the Humane society took in about fifty animal a day and adopted out twenty.

As we stood there I heard snatches of conversation, "I can't keep him, he digs holes in my garden" "There such cute puppies, I know you will have no trouble finding homes for them." "She is wild , I can't control her." We left the reception area, Ron lead me into the staging area where all the incoming animal were evaluated for adoptability. Over half never even made it to the adoption centre. There were just too many. Not only were people bringing in their own animal, but strays were also dropped off. By law the humane society had to hold a stray for three days. If the animal was not claimed by then it was euthanased , since there was no background information on the animal.

As we went through the different areas, I felt more and more depressed. No amount of statistics, could take the place of seeing the reality of what this throw away attitude did to the living breathing animal. It was over overwhelming.

Finally Ron stopped in front of a closed door. "That's it." He said. "Except for this." I read the sign on the door. "Euthanization Area." "Do you want to see one.? He asked. Before I could decline, he interjected, "You really should, you can't tell the whole story unless you experience the end." I reluctantly agreed.

He knocked firmly on the door. It was opened immediately by a middle aged woman, in a white lab coat. "Here's the girl I was telling you about." Ron explained. Peggy looked me over. "Well I'll leave you here with Peggy and meet you in the reception area in about fifteen minutes. I'll have the puppy ready."

Peggy motioned me in. As I walked into the room, I gave a audible gasp. The room was small and sparten. There were a couple of cages on the wall and a cabinet with syringes and vials of a clear liquid. In the middle of the room was a examining table with a rubber mat on top. There were two  doors other then the one I had entered. Both were closed, one said to incinerator room, and the other had no sign, but I could hear various animals noises coming for behind the closed door. In the back of the room, near the door that was marked incinerator, were the objects that caused my distress. two wheel barrels, filled with the bodies of dead kittens and puppies. I stared in horror. Nothing had prepared me for this, I felt my legs grow weak and my breathing become rapid and shallow. I wanted to run from that room, screaming.

Finally, Peggy seemed to noticed that I was not paying attention to her. "Are you listening?" She asked irritably. "I'm only going to go through this once. I tore my gaze from the back of the room and looked at her. She told me that behind the unmarked door were the animals that were scheduled for euthanasia that day. She picked up the a chart that was hanging from the wall. "One fifty three is next." She said as she looked at the chart. "I'll go get him." She laid down the chart on the examining table and started for the unmarked door.

As Peggy open the unmarked door I peered into the room beyond. It was a small room, but the walls were lined and stacked with cages. It looked like they were all occupied. Peggy opened the door of one of the lower cages and removed the occupant. From what I could see it looked like a medium size dog. She attached a leash and ushered the dog into the room in which I stood. As Peggy brought the dog into the room I could see that the dog was no more than a puppy maybe five or six months old. The pup looked to be a cross between a Lab and a German shepherd. He was mostly black, with a small amount of tan above his eyes and on his feet. He was very excited and bouncing up and down, trying to sniff everything in this new environment. Peggy lifted the pup onto the table. She had a card in her hand. which she laid on the table next to me. I read the card. It said that number one fifty three was a mixed Shepherd, 6 months old. He was surrendered two days ago by a family. Reason of surrender was given as jumps on children. At the bottom was a note that said Name: Sam.

Peggy was quick and efficient , from lots of practice, I guessed. She laid one fifty three down on his side and tied a rubber tourniquet around his front leg. She turned to fill the syringe from the vial of clear liquid. All this time I was standing at the head of the table. I could see the moment that one fifty three went from a curious puppy to a terrified puppy. He did not like being held down and he started to struggle. It was then that I finally found my voice.

I bent over the struggling puppy and whispered "Sam." " Your name is Sam."

At the sound of his name Sam quit struggling. He wagged his tail tentatively and his soft pink tongue darted out and licked my hand And that is how he spent his last moment. I watched his eyes fade from hopefulness to nothingness. It was over very quickly. I had never even seen Peggy give the lethal shot. The tears could not be contained any longer. I left the room. That night I went home and spent many hours playing with the orphan puppy. I went to bed that night but I could not sleep. After awhile I got up and looked at my speech notes with their numbers and statistics. Without second thought I tore them up and threw them away. I went back to bed.

The next morning I arrived at my Speech class with Puppy Doe. When my turn came to give my speech. I walked up to the front the class with the puppy in my arms. I took a deep breath, and I told the class about the life and death of Sam. When I finished my speech I became aware that I was crying. I apologized to the class and took my seat. After class the teacher handed out a critique with our grades. I had got a "A". His comments said "Very moving and persuasive."

Two days latter, on the last day of class, one of my classmates came up to me. She was a older lady that I had never spoken to in class. She stopped me on our way out of the class room. "I want you to know that I adopted the puppy you brought to class." She said. "His name is Sam."

Author Unknown

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My Cat

My cat walks slowly through the house,
measuring each step,
examining the nooks and crannys,
and I can almost visualize,
the crown of diamonds on her head,
the purple velvet cape
trimmed with ermine
trailing behind her.
When I call her name,
she lifts her tail
in acknowledgment,
telling me she heard me
but continuing her noble walk.
When she naps on my chest
and gives me a lick,
I feel privileged indeed
to share my life
with a cat.

~ Natasha Josefowitz ~ Ph.D.

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Shopping for Kitty

Written by M. R. L.

From "A Potpourri of All Things"

by Mildred R. Lenhart ©2000

I was deeply involved in shopping one day -

Shopping for my cat;

being selective - needless to say -

Choosing this and that.

will she eat turkey? It must be shredded,

And only a certain brand.

You can guess where I was headed -

To the more expensive cans.

She will eat whitefish, if it's blended with tuna;

(The human variety)

This room mate of mine can eat like a puma -

Will she save some for me?

I was just about finished, for this time;

When along cam someone to ruin my rhyme.

She glanced at the cans, and said to me,

Without a hint of hostility,

"My little cat is so refined -

He simply ignores the cheaper kind."

She made her selections from the shelf -

Her manner was quite pleasant.

But until my kitty "finds herself,"

She's going to eat like a peasant.

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Little Ghost Cat

Little Ghost cat,

Your footsteps pit-pat

In the hallway of my mind

The kiss of air, whisper-soft purr;

I hear the echos of your purr;

See your pouncing shadow everywhere....

And smile through my tears.

Author Unknown

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While kids are teaching dogs to fetch

And other tricks worth knowing,

Dogs are teaching kids to care,

To give a lot of love,

and share...

Kids and dogs!

They've got a good thing going!

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Pet Loss Poems

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"Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains unawakened."  ~Anatole France

"My little dog -- a heartbeat at my feet." ~ Edith Wharton

"I think I could turn and live with animals, they are so placid and self-contained, I stand and look at them long and long." ~ Walt Whitman

"There is no psychiatrist in the world like a puppy licking your face."   ~Ben Williams

"A dog maybe a man's best friend but a horse made history..."   ~ Anonymous

"Did you ever walk into a room and forget why you walked in? I think that is how dogs spend their lives." ~ Sue Murphy

"To err is human, to forgive canine" ~ Anonymous

"There's no need for a piece of sculpture in a home that has a cat." ~Wesley Bates

"Who can believe that there is no soul behind those luminous eyes!" ~  Theophile Gautier

"A horse gallops with his lungs, Perseveres with his heart, And wins with his character." ~ Tesio

"You can say any foolish thing to a dog, and the dog will give you a look that says, 'My God, you're right! I never would've thought of that!'" ~ Dave Barry 

"There is nothing in which the birds differ more from man than the way in which they can build and yet leave a landscape as it was before." ~ Robert Lynd

"The dog was created especially for children. He is the God of frolic." ~ Henry Ward Beecher

"Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole." ~ Roger Caras

"Thousands of years ago, cats were worshipped as gods. Cats have never forgotten this." ~ Anonymous

"If I have any beliefs about immortality it is that certain dogs I know will go to heaven, and very very few people." ~ James Thurber

"A hen is only an egg's way of making another egg." ~ Samuel Butler

"I've met many thinkers and many cats, but the wisdom of cats is infinitely superior." ~ Hippolyte Taine

"Every boy should have two things: a dog, and a mother willing to let him have one" ~ Anonymous

"We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals." ~ Immanual Kant

"A dog has lots of friends because he wags his tail and not his tongue." ~ Anonymous

"The dog represents all that is best in man." ~ Etienne Charlet

"A canter is the cure for all evil." ~ Benjamin Disraeli

"The Cat. He walked by himself, and all places were alike to him." ~ Rudyard Kipling

"Don't accept your dog's admiration as conclusive evidence that you are wonderful." ~ Ann Landers

"The bird of paradise alights only upon the hand that does not grasp." ~  John Berry

"And God took a handful of southernly wind, blew His breath over it and created the horse." ~ Bedouin Legend

"The average dog is a nicer person than the average person." ~ Andrew A. Rooney

"A bird does not sing because it has an answer. It sings because it has a song." ~ Chinese Proverb

"Dogs come when they're called; cats take a message and get back to you later." ~ Mary Bly

"Animals are such agreeable friends - they ask no questions, they pass no criticisms." ~ George Elliot

"The Trouble with a kitten is That Eventually it becomes a Cat" ~ Ogden Nash

"The greatest pleasure of a dog is that you may make a fool of yourself with him and not only will he not scold you, but he will make a fool of himself, too." ~ Samuel Butler

"A Horse! A Horse! my kingdom for a horse!" ~ Shakespeare

"To err is human, to purr is feline." ~ Robert Byrne

"If a dog jumps in your lap, it is because he is fond of you; but if a cat does the same thing, it is because you lap is warmer." ~ Alfred North Whitehead

"...he will be our friend for always and always and always." ~ Rudyard Kipling

"The best thing about animals is that they don't talk much." ~ Thornton Wilder

"When I play with my cat, who knows whether she is not amusing herself with me more than I with her." ~ Montaigne

"An animal's eyes have the power to speak a great language." ~ Martin Buber

"And God took a handful of southernly wind, blew His breath over it and created the horse." ~ Bedouin Legend

I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me they are the role model for being alive. - Gilda Radner

"Did you ever notice when you blow in a dog's face he gets mad at you? But when you take him in a car he sticks his head out the window!" -- Steve Bluestone

"If your dog doesn't like someone you probably shouldn't either." -- Unknown

"Some of my best leading men have been dogs and horses."  -- Elizabeth Taylor

"Dogs are our link to paradise. They don't know evil or jealousy or discontent. To sit with a dog on a hillside on a glorious afternoon is to be back in Eden, where doing nothing was not boring--it was peace." -- Milan Kundera

"Qui me amat, amet et canem meum." ("Love me, love my dog.") -- St. Bernard, A.D. 1150, "Sermo Primus"

"Teaching a child not to step on a caterpillar is as valuable to the child as it is to the caterpillar. " -- Bradley Millar

Example is not the main thing in influencing others, it is the only thing. --Bo Short

To handle yourself, use your head; to handle others, use your heart. --Donald Laird

If you want to build a ship, don't herd people together to collect wood and don't assign them tasks and work, but rather teach them to long for the endless immensity of the sea.  --Antoine de Saint-Exupery

Even though you may want to move forward in your life, you may have one foot on the brakes. In order to be free, we must learn how to let go. Release the hurt. Release the fear. Refuse to entertain your old pain. The energy it takes to hang onto the past is holding you back from a new life. What is it you would let go of today? --Mary Manin Morrissey author

If what you're working for really matters, you'll give it all you've got. --Nido Qubein

Striving for excellence motivates you; striving for perfection is demoralizing. --Harriet Braiker

"I expect to pass through this world but once. Any good therefore that I can do, or any kindness or abilities that I can show to any fellow creature, let me do it now. Let me not defer it or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again." ~ William Penn

"I wish no living thing to suffer pain." ~ Percy Bysshe Shelley

"Life is life--whether in a cat, or dog or man. There is no difference there between a cat or a man. The idea of difference is a human conception for man's own advantage..." ~Sri Aurobindo (poet and philosopher)

"The question is not, can they reason? Nor, can they talk? But, can they suffer?" ~ Jeremy Bentham

"We can not have peace among men whose hearts find delight in killing any living creature" ~ Rachel Carson

"He who is cruel to animals becomes hard also in his dealings with men. We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals"  ~ Immanuel Kant

"If humans have stature above all other creatures, is it not our responsibility to show kindness, care and compassion to those lesser then ourselves? To speak for those with no voice, to act for those who cannot?" ~ CloudDancer Mogle

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