Today's Animal House column. I couldn't make these up if I tried:
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Pet dumpers' litany of lame excuses
Denise Flaim
Animal House
July 24, 2006
Here's a question as bedeviling as that zen koan about the sound of one hand clapping:
What is the most pathetic excuse for giving up a companion animal?
Living as we do amid an epidemic of tepid commitment and laser-sharp detachment, people routinely discard their companion animals. Some reasons - like a child's allergies or sudden homelessness - are understandable. But many are not - at least not to those who consider their animals family members, a status that is not usually negotiable.
Rescuers - you know them by the plastic airline crates in their hatchbacks, and the Milk-Bones in their glove compartments - are in the non-profit business of cleaning up the messes people make with the sentient beings they've brought into their lives. With big hearts and tiny budgets, they grit their teeth as clueless, oftentimes obnoxious owners hand over the leash - or cage, or tank.
Excuses - they have heard them all before. But maybe you haven't.
Moving is a perennial reason for dumping animals. "It's everyone's favorite," says Barbara Williamson of Best Friends Society, who polled staffers. "Nobody here can even begin to understand how you move into a place that doesn't accept pets when you have pets."
(Another head-scratcher: The person who returned a cat to the Utah sanctuary because its neurological condition "wasn't bad enough." In other words, the cat wasn't special-needs enough.)
Another common catalyst is the arrival of a sweetheart. New lovers or spouses who hate dog hair or slobber issue ultimatums, and their not-so-better halves comply.
The dissolution of a marriage is a prime reason for relinquishing animal companions, as is the arrival of diminutive two-leggers. "When the excuse is that the owner is having a baby, I send her to the president of Alaskan Malamute Rescue of New England," says Malamute fancier Susan Conant, who writes dog-centric mystery novels. "She is the mother of triplets."
Yep, family ties can be nooses for some animals. Marjorie Lipson of Long Island-based Second Chance Labrador Rescue offered up the interesting approach of blaming the kids: "My youngest child is now in college - it was her dog that we purchased 14 years ago," one owner told her as he turned over his gray-faced dog. "We never wanted a dog - the kids did."
For those who have written their wills to ensure that their furry and feathered family members will be cared for after their demise, think again. "Even though I promised to care for the dog, I knew I really wouldn't," explained one relative Lipson encountered. "I just wanted the inheritance."
Avarice is predictable. But this excuse isn't: "A woman had a 12-year-old male cat she wanted us to take because 'He won't play with toys anymore, so we want to replace him with a kitten,'" says Dottie Zammetti of A Home at Last Animal Adoption Network in Brightwaters. More than one rescuer reports cats rejected because they would not sit on laps. Or male dogs tossed because they don't lift their legs.
"He doesn't photograph well in our family portrait" is so sad that it could be made up. But it isn't.
Norwegian elkhound fancier Lexiann Grant of southeastern Ohio, who contributed that one, also had this doozy: "An Akita was surrendered because the family decided to do away with their current 'Japanese landscaping' and go with a southwestern theme."
If you find it hard to believe that people can be that superficial, consider this chestnut from Barbara Sawyer-Brown, a Ridgeback breeder and longtime rescuer from Chicago: "We redecorated and the dog no longer matches the decor." As one rescuer put it, "It's the accumulated oblivious sincerity that really gets you."
File this under "craven compassion": Pam Dennison, author of "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Positive Dog Training," had a friend who took in an 18-month-old Schnauzer. "She had a kidney problem and the owners 'loved her so much they couldn't bear to watch her die.'" (Postscript: The friend kept the dog, switched her to a raw-food diet, and five years later, the dog is still going strong.)
People dump their bunny rabbits with such infuriating regularity that Mary Cotter of the House Rabbit Society keeps a list of common excuses. Some deadbeat owners have simply performed a cold-hearted calculation: "He's sick - we're not going to pay $50 for a vet visit for a pet that cost $15."
Debra J. White of Tempe, Ariz., started volunteering at animal shelters in 1989. "I have seen and heard the most dumb, pathetic and lame excuses," she says. "The cat meows. The dog barks."
But nothing prepared her for this beaut, delivered by a pregnant woman who was jettisoning her child substitute to make room for the real thing.
"My fetus," the mother-to-be proclaimed, "is allergic to the dog."
Copyright 2006 Newsday Inc.>>
Comments (275)
I believe it all. It's a shame there is no law against throwing away living beings. People can be so pathetic. I think that is why I prefer animals to humans.
When we purchased our precious home, the owners at the time had a black lab, very sweet of coarse, when they realized what big animal lovers we were they offered to throw in the dog, cause with their newly built home being decorated all white, it would be a bother to be cleaning up black dog hair!
I was so sick by that comment, I just couldn't believe it, but it happens all the time. Rosa
I met a man last week on my way to the dog park who had a beautiful, very long legged golden retriever. My dog stopped to say hi to his rather sad looking goldie. When I asked the dogs name and age the man offered the information that the dog was "very bad" that day and would be going to a new home, or the shelter soon. "I just can't take it anymore", he said. Having volunteered myself, and heard all the excuses and more that todays article mentions I couldn't resist learning more, why would someone give up a dog they had for 5 years? The man stated that the dog went nuts and destroyed the house everytime there was a thunderstorm. I was appalled....we live in New Orleans, summer storms are typical and he had put up with it for 5 years, why now is it an issue? I asked the man to consider seeking professional help for his dog, and explained storm phobias to him and that it wasn't necessarily his dog being "bad". Rather than giving his "problem" to someone else would he please research, talk to the vet and reconsider, but he seemed resolute in his decision. Things like this can be fixed, if the owner is willing, this one I'm afraid is not. I ultimately offered my help to re-home this poor, loyal dog, who truly can't help that he has storm phobia. At this point I have to ask myself, maybe it will be better for this dog to go to a new home, someone that will help him overcome his fear of storms, or at least work with him so that he isn't quite so terrified that he causes damage to property and possibly hurts himself. I have not seen the man since, but I watch for him everyday when I take my baby to the dog park. I wonder if I talked him into keeping his dog? I wonder if that would be the right thing for the dog? I'll be looking for him again tonight at the park....it's supposed to be scattered thunderstorms all day today and I can't stop thinking about that poor scared baby who will be punished for his fear.
For anyone else out there who may not know, storm phobia is a very real condition in some dogs, and with proper training, behavior modification and in some cases the use of medications it can be treated. Talk to your vet if you want to learn more. There is also a wealth of information online, just google "storm phobia".
I meant previous home
Rose - did you keep the dog then?
No Kathy I am sorry to say I couldn't. I still think about her (bella).
My animals are not only my best friends but they are members of my family too. They get spoiled rotten and they dog even gets his own steaks on sunday. They are all friendly and though they have their flaws like we all do, I love them to death . If I found out I was allergic to one, so be it, they won't go anywhere. I get them with only the true intention of keeping them until it's that time. My cats blessed my new leather couches by scratching them, ($2,500 dollars) I was not happy but I love my cats. My dog gets an upset stomach and gets the runs, obviously this happens when I'm sleeping only to wake up and see the living room carpets full of ... well you know! Good thing for a steam cleaner. I have always thought people who get an animal should keep the animal and if they have to give it away for whatever reason give it to a place thats no kill. Sorry but people like this are the people that are making the animal population over populated. We do not need to see more stray cats and dogs, it's sad enough as it is.
My Moses is so afraid of fireworks. The banging scares his 90lb body into shear terror. His only comfort is to be with me curled up at my feet or in the middle of the house away from windows. I play music and act like everything is okay. I would never scold him. I understand. The sky is falling. I am always home at night on the 4th and for one week before and one week after too. Same goes with big storms too.
These people who don't understand their animals should only own stuffed toys. Pets are not status symbols or arm candy.
Enough, now I must really work.
Chrissy - you hit the nail on the head - ditto
Potential pet owners should be screened and interviewed just like adopting a child, they should make it very difficult to make the decisions in owning a pet! I was interviewed twice on the phone and had a home visit interview before adopting my Greyhound, thats the way it should be with any pet. I think it would make all these careless people with no hearts think twice!! Rosa
People are so callous these days. Everything is disposable. Kids, pets, spouses. It infuriates me to think of all the trusting, loving cats and dogs that get dumped because the had the bad fortune to get an unfeeling moron for an owner.
I agree Rosa - unfortunately people will go to places that don't require that and adopt from puppy mills or ads placed in the paper - unfortunately because of that, puppy mills continue to grow and produce many many unneeded litters - so sad that these adorable pets go to homes where they are usually mistreated and abandoned. Luckily not all end up like that but I'm sure the vast majority do. I have a lot of people complain to me that they don't want to go thru the adoption groups I volunteer with because they want to do a home vist and may find that their home isn't suitable - well if that is the case, there is probably a reason I figure. Even with home visits and interviews, we still get a lot of relinguishments - sad.
Its a me me me society - my mom used to tell me that people used to say - hooray for me and to he** with you - well - it seems that that is the way a lot think nowadays
Just the words "puppy mill" makes my skin crawl, if they could just find a way to ban them all together, it would be a step in the right direction. Wish there were stricter laws for owning a pet, and that they would be reinforced.
My husband of three years September 5, wants to set my rescue greyhound free, at times. Ricochet was brought in to the SPCA where my daughter was volunteering.
I have a saluki that had lost her other dog friends (two other salukis, a border terrier, a german shepherd, and a mixed breed), so, I wanted to get another saluki to keep her company. Circumstances kept changing my plans.
My daughter kept insisting there was a calm, laidback, friendly, greyhound that I should adopt instead of trying to acquire another saluki.
I finally went to meet him bringing Vashti, my saluki, along to see how they interacted. Vashti was eight at the time and has always been a prima dona. They appeared to be fine on neutral turf, so, Ricochet came home with me.
You must understand, the only dogs I seem to relate to completely, are salukis. I just love their temperaments. We understand each other. Anyway, I thought since greyhounds are sighthounds, their temperaments were similar. Greyhounds do love to run and they do hunt by sight, but that appears to be where their similarities end, at least that is the case with Ricochet.
I brought him home, so I will keep him until I or he dies, but it is a challenge. He screams, (I know, strange description for dog barking) that is the only way I can describe the sounds that he makes in the morning, if I don't feed him when he thinks it is time for me to awaken. He butts me with his head pretty forcefully when he wants something. Manners is not something taught at the racetrack.
He is much better now that I am home during the day. I have told him he is a fortunate boy to have come home with me, as someone else might not put up with his antics.
We live in a superficial, throw away, world.
Bless you FL Linda for saying that you will keep him - there are so many others that are not as loyal as you. I am dealing with a lot of the same issues with my greyhound pup - I'm hoping she will outgrow it but it looks like obedience classes are in the near future for her and I.
K in CO,
I think obedience training is a great idea for your greyhound. Ricochet has improved immensely since I resigned from my job and I can spend more time with him. He is such a needy creature. My salukis were much more independent.
Hi Gang -
Well, I just read this new post and am now totally sick to my stomach. It's a sad commentary on society to know that these kind of morons exist - I always knew they did but some of these excuses are just so ridiculous I find it hard to believe that we humans are the "intelligent species". I thank God that there are kind, compassionate people such as yourselves to restore my faith in humankind. God Bless you all!
Lois T
My Border Collie Patch was in a backyard in a fancy neighborhood for 6 years with no toys. This woman's father came over to feed him (filling up this massive bowl with cheap food) I think and to take him to the vet every year or two. I am an artist and had a friend doing faux finish work at the house. She called me "It looks like Border Collie but bigger". I went to see him and he was a beautiful, highly bred Border Collie 30lbs overweight. Over 80 lbs.
The woman said, "My ex-husband left him behind with everything else."
"He cost alot but I am not going to ask money for him."
Now he weighs 53 lbs, has two full toy boxes and does agility. He is a smart, gorgeous, big hearted dog with some problems from being so bored for so long...
Karen - congratulations on being the lucky human to be owned by Patch and for giving him such a loving home and life.
I agree with Rosa, the adoption process should be thourough and lengthy. I've dealt with many folks who took offense to the application and adoption procedures when I volunteered. My answer to them is they don't need to get a pet.
I have 3 adopted dogs, all of them have some social problems of some sort that have tested me and my patience to no end, but we work through it ALWAYS. I love them all with every inch of my heart and I would never, ever even begin to think of "getting rid" of them. One of my dogs is 15 and I adopted her and her mother 14 years ago (her mother has passed). I have broken off relationships, refused to move to an apartment that won't allow pets and even moved home to my mother's house at one point because I couldn't find a place to allow my dogs. When I adopted them I made a promise "till death do us part". If someone is truly committed to their pet they can find a way to make it work. Part of owning a pet should involve understanding that it's responsibility and that makes life difficult sometimes.
Bravo ADG
The worse excuse I ever heard for getting rid of a dog was a Jewish neighbor that I babysat for when I was 16 or 17. They had bought a beautiful weimeraner bitch for their home as a companion for their baby son and also as a "Guard dog". One night they asked me to babysit again (had not done so for them for about a month) and when I got over there, their 2 year old son was acting strangely and was screaming uncontrollably and calling out the dog's name. I asked where their dog was, as she always greeted me at the door when I arrived and was the sweetest, most gentle dog I had ever met. The father said that they had put the dog down. When I asked if it had been sick, or had there been an accident and was that why they put it down, his comment to me was that they put the dog down because it wasn't "Jewish" enough to fit into their lifestyle. I thought he was joking so as not to have to tell me something bad. He was not joking. He truly felt the dog wasn't Jewish enough and told all the rest of his neighbors the same thing. Even my father thought that was a strange excuse and since my father knew the neighbor's vet, he asked the vet about it and the vet confirmed that this neighbor did bring the dog in to have it put to sleep stating that the dog was not fitting into their Jewish lifestyle and religion. The vet refused to put the dog down for that and tried to convince him to give the dog up and they would find it a new home. Neighbor refused, left with the dog, and obviously found another way to have the dog put down. I also found out why their son was screaming that night when I arrived. Their 2 year old son was intoxicated on the liquor that the father allowed the son to drink prior to my arrival. Before I could voice my opinion about any of it, they grabbed their coats and walked out telling me they would be back hours later. To make a long story short, this neighbor was reported to authorities about allowing a child to have liquor and also about what they had done to their dog. The entire neighborhood was infuriated at this man and his wife. Unfortunately 35 years ago they didn't have the laws they have now. He got off with a warning and they moved out of the area 4 months later. I have nothing against Jewish people or the Jewish religion, but this man was nuts. We learned that he ended up killing his wife, son and himself 5 years later. I have just never to this day forgotten that excuse.
Ruby - The situation in California and other areas is certainly sad and upsetting. We must be really destroying the ozone for all of these horrible heat waves to be hitting the US so bad.
Usually Memphis is much worse than it has been this summer. Maybe I am getting used to it, but so far it has not seemed that terrible. Then too, August is usually the killer for us.
Keep cool and help keep others cool too!
Last night I watched "Sanford and Son." I just love that show. On a lighter note, they had an earthquake and Sanford was talking about the earthquakes along the coast and the heat in the desert and said they should rename California "Shake and Bake." Had to agree with him on this latest news!
Lisa - apparently this man was "off" to have done all the atrocities he did - sad that the dog and family had to pay his price but I guess they are all in a better place now.
I wanted to thank the kind people who have e-mailed me recently, those who read the blog also and don't post, with their supportive healing words. Also, I will send my visions to anyone interested. I don't know search details, of course, but I will continue the Vivi gleanings for all who are interested.
God Bless. The heat should break soon here in the Central Valley of CA. The poor animals are suffering so, and children are getting sick too, and the poorest of the forgotten elderly are dying. Please keep them in your prayers.
Latest on Barbaro:
According to Chief of Surgery Dean Richardson, Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro slept well after his left hind foot bandage was changed yesterday. "I'm happy with the appearance of this foot, which is doing as well as can be expected," said Dr. Richardson. "Over the last several days, his temperature has been normal and his blood work has significantly improved suggesting that the infection in his right hind is under control." His heart rate is also consistently normal now, a good indication that he is stable and comfortable.
Barbaro remains in the Intensive Care Unit of Penn's George D. Widener Hospital.
The next update will be posted on Friday, July 28 unless there is a significant change in Barbaro's condition.
Please also pray for the forgotten animals, the small creatures that are dying from the heat: the frogs and skunks, rabbits and possums. The horses and donkeys left in open fields with no shade, the outside cats that must wait for their owners to return. And for the outside dogs, that must endure the oppressive heat and humidity while their owners ride in comfort in air conditioned vehicles and work in air conditioned offices.
The upper valley of Ca gets a delta breeze that is on its way to cool the nights - the first cool nights in over 10 days, but the lower Central Valley, Stockton and Modesto Area, Fresno down south, all are sweltering - people and animals alike.
Pray for relief. Thank you all for your kind thoughts and prayers.
The heat is making me crazy also. My pets stay inside and can’t play like usual for extended periods, especially at night, because it is hot and humid late even into the dark. This morning I was hurrying to water my plants in my front area and I unlocked the redwood gate to my front patio that surrounds the front of my house, but I forgot to re-lock it.
Then I let three of my dogs outside on the patio area while I got ready for work. Yes, with the gate not latched securely.
Well, you guess it……it swung open and all three dogs went out. When I called them in, fifteen minutes later, all three trotted inside, but my Doberman had to run back out the gate and bark. What a stinker; then, the big guy ran back - all are safe but only by the grace of God.
I scolded myself over and over. Thank goodness all stayed at the top of my driveway barking at the world, of course, but they stayed nevertheless.
I just had an email from Kiva's owner and she is STILL MISSING. Please, if you live in the Bakersfied area, help this lovely lady. I will put the original email below in case anyone can cross post it to other dog lists, so maybe help can be given:
***PLEASE CROSS POST***
Hi Everyone,
I am posting this for a friend. Her whippet got out of the house during a
thunder storm today. Please if anyone is in the area and can help that would
be great!!
Kiva is a 17 year old (very active) blue and white female whippet. She is
not wearing a collar and is not michrochiped. She has a faint scar on her
left side, and a black scar on her nose. She is also missing her left top
K9.
She got out of the house at 2305 Triol Pine Mt. Club, CA 93222 this is near
Frazier Park, CA. Kiva was last seen on Mill Pertro Hwy around noon today
7/22/06.
Kiva is very frightened of thunder/loud noises. She loves kids and has an
Italian Greyhound at home.
If anyone can help please let Chrysalis know her contact info is
chrysbug@hotmail.com of call (206)313-0831.
Chrys is flying back down form Seattle today.
Please everyone think good thoughts, cross post and anything else you can
think of to help. Kiva is her baby!
Thanks,
Morgan and the Gang
Seattle, WA
***PLEASE CROSS POST***
One more thing...Vivi only has 52 candles on the Gratefulness Org. website. I know we can light the place up!! Also remember all the others, Scully, McGee, Barbaro, Madison, Kiva, etc. etc. Come on friends, get lighting! :)
Update on the rescue whippet Kathy from CO wrote about earlier today needing a ride:
I thought you'd like to know that the rescue whippet from FL now only needs to be transported from Greenville, SC to Chesapeke, VA. Joanne Ronning is going to bring her up to her new owner in NJ from there!
I'm so sorry to hear about Kiva. We need to hold her mommie up in prayer. This is a terrible time for her. I asked God to hold Kiva close and comfort her. She is in God's hands.
(Sorry for the double post but I'm getting my threads confused)
I live in Bakersfield. Would you please let me know where the owner lives and I will contact her and go help find Kiva. It is extremely hot here. Today is 110 degrees.
I just got off the phone with Kiva's owner. She said she has posted flyers everywhere and walked around everyday looking for her. I also asked her about the fires and she said as of this morning the fires have been put out. She asked my if I could contact the vets here in Bakersfield so I'm waiting for her to fax me a flyer of Kiva so I can start faxing to all the vets here. Let's hope and pray this girl gets home.
Poor Kiva, what weather to lost in. good for you Marty. Nice to see this blog being used for what it does best.
I got an email back from the whippet list. Holly is still missing also.
Here is the response.
Holly has not been found.
People across the country have been so kind, offering help in many ways. Thank you all.
Janet Walter
Marty, you are MY HERO!!! THANK YOU!!! Any lost whippet breaks my heart, but to hear of a 17 year old lost is just unbearable to me. All dogs are treasures, but the oldsters...sigh!! Marty, I will rest easier knowing you are helping. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!
Marty - Good Luck with finding Kiva, it is heartbreaking for one that old to be away from her home.
Prayers and candles for all the lost fur babies.
Keeping the faith for VIVI in TX
Way to go Marty!!! Proof positive that this blog can help so many people and animals in so many ways!
Lois T
Marty, Your Great!!! Rosa
Good luck and keep us posted.
I was just talking to Lois T about something troubling in our family, and decided I would post on the blog and ask for everyone's prayers.
In 2000, I lost my maternal grandmother as the result of the return of breast cancer that had metastisized.
Last year, my mother showed up with the same type of breast cancer and had a mastectomy with lump node removal on the right side. She now has a lump in the incision where the mastectomy was done. On August 8th the surgeon is to check this and possibly biopsy it to see if the breast cancer has returned.
I would appreciate your prayers that this terrible disease will not take another person I love dearly. I cannot stress to everyone how important those mammograms are. Do not neglect your health and your mammograms. Mom's name is Mary Ann. Thank you everyone for your prayers. I know they are answered - I see it each day.
O God, source of life and power, Who feedeth the birds of the heavens, increase our tenderness towards all the creatures of Thy hand. Help us to refrain from petty acts of cruelty, or thoughtless deeds of harm to any living animal. May we care for them at all times, especially during hard weather, and protect them from injury so that they learn to trust us as friends. Let our sympathy grow with knowledge, so that the whole creation may rejoice in Thy presence.
Author Unknown
Creator God, we are so discouraged. There are so many animals we care about here who are lost, or very ill, and so many fellow animal lovers who also need Your healing and comfort. We know Father, that You love them even more than we can, so we lift in confidence our prayers to You. Please take care of sweet Vivi as she spends one more night tenaciously remaining in survival mode. Give her safe and peaceful rest this night, and one night in the near future may she be cared for and loved by her "mom" Jil. Send her a volunteer and a break/miracle that will lead her to her family. Dear sweet Senior Kiva, Father, our hearts break at the thought that this girl should have to fend for herself in such lousy weather, let someone spot her, and take her home to her family as quickly as possible! Tender and compassionate put these other lost lambs in Your flock and lead them home:Whippet Annie,African Grey,Biggie, Sniffles, Holly, Faithful(the little girl's seizure dog),Apple Riley, Buddy, Rags,Precious, Little Aussie,and Montefiore Mama, Daddy, and girl (the pup's family).We offer new prayers tonight for Lois' sister's baby Linus. Great physician, you brought sight to the blind, cured the lame, and deaf, and rescued the dying and brought them to life. Help us with the healing of our many seriously ill animal buddies: Barbaro, CJ,Dante and Trotter, Felice, Gunner ,Linus,Max, McGee, Murphy, and Mylie and Renee's precious Skully. Lay Your hands on them as we, their families/friends give them a night blessing. Use their sleep tonight to restore them to health. Send big prayers and a miracle tonight to Tara's neighbor Pat-- sending complete recovery in her stroke.Let Kathleen's mom's breast lump be found to be be benign. Continue Your healing touch in Madison, Baby Girl,JL, Lance, Pam, Chris, Abby and Kathleen.Lay Your hands on them as we send them a night blessing. Use their peaceful sleep to restore them to health. See that HAPPY goes to the home You want him to have.(Someone notify us of this?) Bless all our special friends who have gone before,(There have been so many of them--- just since February!) When You see them give them a special bone,treat,or hug for us. Be with all those that mourn tonight, comforting them with the Hope you send in Jesus' name and sacrifice. Greet all pilgrims; human and animal, who will end their journey in Paradise tonight.Grant special graces to those who have searched so long and hard for Vivi.Send Your angels and saints to help them. Give them your guidance, and let them be in the right place to help Vivi Come Home!Bless vets, animal caretakers, and all who perform the arduous job of "Rescuer". Help them to be wise, skillful, and aware of Your love for them. Let our faith increase as a result of this experience with Vivi.Thank you, we ask this in confidence, in Your name, and in the name of Your Son, Jesus. Author of Life bring this story to its happy ending. Thank You, we ask this in confidence in Your name. Creator we turn over the night watch to You, knowing YOU ARE IN CHARGE! AMEN
Candles? (http://www.gratefulness.org
Kathleen my prayers are with you and your mother as well as all the sick , missing, neglected animals and people of this world.
Those exams are everything, my moms mom had ovarian cancer and my mom is Native American . I had to push her hard to go to a Doctor because thats why she lost her mom at 56 years old, she's only 47. She went and all is well but it's so important for all of us that she takes care of her self even if it ment changing her culture just a bit, we want her to be around a long time . I told her I won't have kids unless she goes to a Doctor LOL and she went.
Still hoping Vivi will show her little face soon. Maybe even come to a Volunteer with a doggy smile on her face. Keeping the faith , Chrissy.
Psalm 46:10
Be still and know that I am God...
Daddy God, we come to you this morning and we lift up our hearts to you. There are so many who need your help and deliverance. Make us strong. There are so many of us who are troubled. Give us your Peace. There are so many of us who feel anxiety and worry. Give our hearts your soothing balm. Help us Daddy. We know you are with each and every one of us. We live in such a harsh and cruel world. There are so many people who do not have your love in their hearts. Help us to make a difference. That is why we are all here Daddy. We are here to make a difference in a world that is so dark. Help us to bring your shining light into the earth. Destroy all evil with your Glory Daddy God. Let your glorious light shine through us for all to see. We thank you Daddy God for your mercy and grace. We thank you Daddy God for bringing sweet little Vivi, Biggie, Sniffles, Mary, Rags, Faithful, little Ausie, Mommy, Daddy and baby girl dog, Apple Riley, Holly, Precious Hosanns, Kiva,Buddie, Annie and African Grey home. We thank you for your tender and nurturing care over these little babies. We thank you for the "meeting place" that you have prepared for their rescues and deliverance to bring them home to their families. We thank you Daddy God for your healing grace being recieved by CJ, Dante, Trotter, Felice, Max, McGee, Murphy, Mylie, Barbaro, Gunner, Skully, and Linus. We recieve your healing power and tender touch in Baby Girl, Madison, JL, Lance, Pam, Chris, Abby, Pat, Kathleen and Mary Ann. How we praise you as we recieve your deliverance for all of these that we have brought to your throne. Help us to keep our eyes upon you and upon your Glory, your presence, and your love rather than upon the circumstances. You are greater than any circumstance. You created all of us and we are yours and yours alone. We bask in the glory and forgiveness of your Holy Son Jesus. Our Lord and Savior. Let His redemption flow in our lives and in the lives of all we have brought before you this day. We are strong. We are brave. We are faithful to you and your love to us. You are our Daddy. Nourish and refresh us in your presence and your love. Let your Glory flood this earth for all to see. Destroy any evil or harm that comes near us and those we have brought to your throne of healing and deliverance. Heal our sick, deliver our lost, and cuddle us in your arms as we walk through this day with you. Protect beloved Israel and America. Protect the innocent and lead them away from harm. We rise up this morning expecting great and mighty blessings and miracles from you today. This will be a day filled with your blessings. In Jesus's Name we pray...Amen
Kites rise highest against the wind. Winston Churchill
Help us to soar Daddy.
Daddy God, we also thank you for the rescue today. How we love to hear good news. And thank you Daddy for protecting Sedona's babies when they got out of the fence. We ask you Daddy God to bless all rescuers who work so hard to save your creatures. Give them your wisdom and guidance. We also ask you Daddy God to send a cool gentle breeze to cover the earth and give all a sweet relief from the heat. Help those who have no air conditioning and give your creatures cooling shade and fresh water and strength and life giving food. Keep your eyes upon us as we keep our eyes upon you...In Jesus's Name we pray...Amen
What did I miss? Who was rescued? I must have skipped over a very important part of the blog trying to get it all read and up to date.
Has anoyone been in touch with Renee, didn't see an update last night. I am sure she is hurting and exhausted. Hope everything is Ok. Rosa
Kay - here is the post - it was Mary
I believe this is the same dog Kathy in Colorado was talking about and there is a happy ending.
Just wanted to let you know that Mary's capture was nothing short of a miracle. There were only 4 of us out putting up flyers and after NO sightings we had 2 false hopes and were heading home when a 3rd sighting was reported. We found the home owner that called it in, showed them a picture and it was our girl. We were only 15 minutes behind her. We raced around by car showing folks her picture and had another confirmed sighting within minutes. One team followed on foot while the other got in front of where we thought she was headed. The long & the short of it is, the 2 ladies on foot had her between them within 40'. She was just about to blow by them when she realized one of the ladies had a greyhound with her. Mary trotted right up to the other greyhound and...CAUGHT!!
Mary had just crossed a major main road with lots of traffic AND had fallen into a pond. She's in OK condition; stressed, extremely lame & a bit de-hydrated but she's here with me and I'm keeping my eye on her. Our vet gave her some anti-inflammatory and an injection of Baytril so I'm hopeful with some rest, she'll bounce back.
Thanks for all your advice and support.
Kathleen,
My prayers are with you and your mother
Thank you Cherita. That really is great news.
Great that Mary was caught and what a wonderful story! I wish the volunteers could have a cute male "blow-up" Whippet when they are out searching for Vivi! lol
All kidding aside, dogs seem to attract other dogs when your walking your own. I wish there was a mascot Whipper to help get Vivi!
(P.S. I think darlene comes back today! Got
weenies and beer?)
Kathleen - so sorry to hear about your mother - my prayers are with you and her for her fast and complete recovery.
This blog is so wonderful in so many many ways but the one downside of it is that you meet so many wonderful new people and become involved with their lives - in doing so, you learn of the tragedies of their families, friends, pets, and neighbors and go thru the same feelings that they do with them.
Sorry to get mushy
I guess that is the true meaning of friendship - I have gained many new friends thru this blog - and in doing so have had many feelings rise to the surface. I have also realized how lucky I am to be able to have these feelings, be them good or bad, and to know that all my friends are sharing them with me. Thank you friends.
Kathleen,
My prayers are with you and your Mother.
I wanted to thank everyone for your prayers and kind words. I think I prayed and cried most all last night. Tinkerbell kept trying to lick my tears and be there for me. What a dear, sweetheart she is!
Kathy - I know just what you mean. At times, I have had to leave for a few days to "regroup" because I felt others' pain and worry so badly. My friend, Amanda, had warned me about this and told me to be sure and take a break when it got to me badly. You, and all the others, remember this too. We cannot help others if we do not take care of ourselves as well. Take some time and remember my favorite verse, "Be still and know that I am God." I depend on Him for this renewed strength when times are rough. He has His hands full right now for sure.
The hardest part is talking to Mom and not letting her know I am upset. I do not want her upset right now until we have some definite answers. I think I am better today and can handle dealing with this. Your prayers are definitely helping.
Love all of you so much. You are dear, dear people. :)
The prayers for relief from the heat must be working. We actually had a cool breeze this morning - not much of one - but one nevertheless. More deaths though overnight. I'm sure animals too are dying although that is not being reported as much.
I am sending e-mails of my Vivi Psychic Visions to all who care to receive them. I do not have current search information, sorry.
If you wish to receive the daily Vivi Vision updates, please e-mail me a request by clicking on my name and by sending me an e-mail and I will send them to you.
Again, I do not send official Vivi updates, they are posted on this blog by the search team. Thank you all for the kind comments.
Does any one know if there have been any recent sightings of Vivi? don't need location or anything, just a 'yes' or 'no' and maybe a 'when'
Kathleen,
Your mom's intention is in our parish Book of Life.
And while this is easier said than done--Today has troubles of its own, don't borrow trouble by waiting for test results. Tell yourself things will be fine-- your mom's "lump" is just scar tissue. (It may well be that you know-- I had that happen.) I put this on the blog and not in e-mail to ask Everyone here how many times they were just certain things were terrible news-- and things were ok, or at least different than what they worried about. I have then been so angry with myself at times by spoiling several days with tears and worry, instead of enjoying the days and the people I have. I'm sure you will still worry, but please worry and enjoy your mom, too. Even if you have to face the challenge of breast cancer, God will be there for you and your mom. I've learned that you can never love a person or animal more than God can. Prayers and best wishes from me,Kathleen!
Sharon - Thank you for your kind and wise words. This is so true. My grandfather used to say, "Don't borrow trouble till you have it." I'm going to try and think positive and trust God. I know whether it is the cancer or not, He will never forsake our family. He is always there to comfort and keep us safe.
You are a wise woman well beyond your years Sharon. You and Betty bring so much peace and joy to all of us. Have a blessed day please. Give McGee a big kiss too!
My Husband does wood working and scroll saw work. He made me a wall hanging with this saying:
"Today is the tomorrow that worried you yesterday and all is well."
- Unknown
Hope this helps everyone that is worried today.
Joanne,
I'm having what your woodworking/scroll thingie says, tattooed on my arm.heh heh
Just a note, if you are not receiving my Vivi Visions as requested, e-mail me, and I will be glad to send them. I'm new to group e-mailing. I am filling in the gaps now.
Best,
Well folks - we had such good luck with Mary - here's one for you folks in Kentucky that just came to my attention: Thanks for any help.
I hope you don't mind me posting for a friend who is frantically
searching for her lost Afghan named Precious. Below are links with
more information.
The dog was staying at a professional trainer's home while the owner
attended her father's funeral in California. The dog jumped a 6'
fence on July 6th and has been missing ever since, although there have
been sightings as listed below.
Precious is tattooed, micro chipped, and wearing collar and tags. If
you are anywhere in the area, and can help search for Precious, I'm
sure it would be greatly appreciated.
Mary Hill
Central Illinois Greyhound Adoption
Subject: Lost Afghan Hound - KY - Updated map of sightings
Hello, have updated Precious' page www.hosanna1.com/precious/
and both map & sign (links are on her page)
MAP: http://www.hosanna1.com/Hounds/Photos/LostAfghanHoundMAP.gif
Sign:
http://www.hosanna1.com/Hounds/Photos/LostAfghanHoundSign.gif
Notice the scale at upper right of the map. Got a call from someone
this morning, after I got on the radio shows again, who saw her on Hwy
768 on FRIDAY. That's about 10 (or more) miles as the crow flies from
where she jumped the fence, and just about 1/2 way to MY house. But
the NEXT day (Sat.), two people saw her about 5 miles back the other
direction toward the handler's home (away from my house) .
So I'm glad to know as late as Sat. she was alive, and still in our
area, but she's covering so much ground, and zig zagging back and
forth, so still not sure what direction she may be in now. Still so
many haystacks to find this little needle in. And it is very rural
country, lots of woods, Cumberland Mountains, and lots of it not even
accessible, at least not without 4 wheel drive, and some not even with
it. Please keep praying. Going out again with Justice, and will take
updated map to Post Office, Sheriff, and Highway Patrol.
Hi Everyone - here is a good link to know about -
A new Yahoo group has been formed,
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/K9AmberAlert
" This group is intended to be nationwide, for
locating lost, stolen, or missing dogs.
You MUST include in the SUBJECT LINE of your message:
City, State, Zip Code.
The messages feature is to be used only for posting
information related to lost/found dogs. Membership is
not restricted and posts are not moderated, but
inappropriate posts (chat, introductory messages,
etc.) and members sending those posts will be removed
from the group. "
Just a note, when I have time I will do readings on the lost and missing animals posted on the blog and if I get anything that might be helpful I will e-mail it to the person who posted the concern. I don't have the internet at home so for me to follow up is nearly impossible since I am mainly tracking Vivi.
Of course there is no fee or reward or anthing else taken or ever expected under any circumstances.
All the lost and missing animals are in my prayers too. God bless,