Pets in Poverty
I've never had a pet in my life (nope, not even a fish), so this angle on American poverty is certainly not one that would have occurred to me: In poor regions such as Appalachia, animal welfare is a big problem, as pet-owners can't afford to neuter their pets or get them basic veterinary care. The animal population swells, overwhelmed owners abandon their pets, and big-hearted neighbors -- who often don't have many more resources -- adopt more animals than they can care for. One family in the Times article has 13 dogs.
So are you going to lend a helping hand and take on a puppy?
Posted by: Michael | July 01, 2007 at 01:33 AM
Alas, I wish I could. Allergic to both cats and dogs :-(
Posted by: Dana | July 02, 2007 at 09:12 PM
I'm pretty allergic to cats, but I once found myself stuck rooming with someone who had 2 of them, and I found an Allegra each day meant absolutely no worries. This from someone who couldn't even touch a cat previously without breaking into a 30-minute sneezing fit.
Posted by: Steve | July 03, 2007 at 11:25 AM
Dana,
I see that you have posted a picture of my dog from pbase.com. Normally, you would be welcome to use it, but it is a little weird to see Jenny's photo next to a statement about dogs that are not properly cared for. She is neutered, vaccinated, and loved dearly. She goes on walks, runs at the park and is a model for all with her unrelenting happiness. She is a member of the family.
I an not angry about this; in fact, I admire your concern and intent. But it's a little too weird.
Thanks,
Rick
Posted by: Rick P | June 19, 2008 at 12:41 AM
Dana,
I see that you have posted a picture of my dog from pbase.com. Normally, you would be welcome to use it, but it is a little weird to see Jenny's photo next to a statement about dogs that are not properly cared for. She is neutered, vaccinated, and loved dearly. She goes on walks, runs at the park and is a model for all with her unrelenting happiness. She is a member of the family.
I an not angry about this; in fact, I admire your concern and intent. But it's a little too weird.
Thanks,
Rick
Posted by: Rick P | June 19, 2008 at 12:42 AM
Hey Rick,
It may be weird for you, but I must admit, your dog is ridiculously cute! Probably the reason it was chosen.
Posted by: KB | July 02, 2008 at 04:55 PM
Dana,
Being "too weird for me" was intended to be a friendly way of saying "use some other picture". Maybe I was too subtle.
Rick
Posted by: Rick P | July 26, 2008 at 01:23 PM