The View From the Gazebo. . .

2012-01-19T13:11:00.000-05:00

2012 has certainly started with a roar. My brother-in-law passed away on the 2nd from a heart attack. The week that followed was a blur as family members reconnectd via the phone and shared a lifetime of memories. They talked about growing into young adults, parents, then grandparents and now the shock and the inevitable surprise of losing the first sibling.

There was the whirlwind of calling hours, the funeral, meeting and greeting childhood friends, seldom seen relatives, past neighbors and reaffirming who we were, who we are and acknowledging our shared history. The loss of a sibling reminds us that more sunrises are behind us that ahead of us, it gives us pause if only for a moment.

Lew & Bob July 2010

Back home, life goes on. We go to work, to the grocery store, doctors and dentist. We take our dogs to the vet, clean house, pooper scoop the yard and remind each other to "take your meds." A beloved brother is gone but life goes on, it's just a little quieter, a little less shiny, a little more lonely. We love you Lew and we miss you.

A Lesson From Max. . . .

2011-10-25T12:09:00.003-04:00

I was watching Max our very old, arthritic, and blind Yorkie this morning when a battle burst through the quiet. Max is sometimes very loving, other times very grouchy. When another dog bumped into him there was no question of fight or flight - Max chose fight. He reared up on his back legs, growled, snapped at his tormentor, twisted, turned and made his displeasure known.

I reached down gently lifting him up and away from the fray. As soon as Max recognized my touch he settled down. I spoke to him quietly, gave him a few gentle pets and a hug and he sank into my arms and sighed. Nikki, the other dog involved, looked at me and a kind word and gentle ear scratch reassured her that she was still loved. Off she went to play with another dog.

That's when it hit me, the lesson finally clicked. Max is old, sometimes he hurts physically. He lives in a dark world, blind, no visual cues, alone in his darkness. Voices and touch are his clues to what's going on around him. Max calms when he hears my voice or feels my touch. He immediately understands he's safe. There is no question in his mind, he relaxes knowing instinctively that he is loved. A kind touch reaches his soul to let him know someone cares about him. Max gets that who and what he is, is enough.

And it occurs to me that the next time someone snaps at me, the next time they rear up and growl, I hope I'll remember the lesson Max taught today - a kind word, a gentle voice, a soft touch may be exactly what they need.

We can't always know or even see others pain. We don't know their private battles, secret fears, or blind spots. Max reminded me today that often what is needed is a little kindness. For that moment, that instant, it' enough.

One of the best kept secrets on TV. . . .

2011-10-16T11:04:00.001-04:00

We keep the TV on almost all the time, it's good background noise and helps keep the dogs settled down except for the commercials where a door bell rings. Sigh, that's another story we'll tell someday. Anyway, here it is Sunday morning, the TV is on and I have to say one of the best programs on TV is CBS Sunday Morning.

It's a news magazine that takes the time to tell the story. Last week there was a segment on high tech bionic prosthetics that help paralyzed people walk - it was a simply amazing, well told story. They also did a segment on one of my favorite entertainers of all time - Ellen DeGeneres. Ellen is, in my opinion, the epitome of grace under pressure. She told a truth and was vilified by the public, yet her kindness and gentle spirit won out. The Ellen segment showcased how nice she is and yes, how funny.

I enjoy the variety of information in the program. Today, a segment on Cold Play, the music group whose lead singer Chris Martin is married to Gwyneth Paltrow. . . who knew? (Okay, probably everyone except me.) Another segment dealt with the pill factories in Florida - doctors whose practice exists to push prescription drugs for $$$$. Oh yes, and a nice presentation about the good things found in New Jersey.

Easy going, useful information presented in a quiet, pleasant format. A nice way to start the week and probably one of the best kept secrets on TV. Turn it on next Sunday, I think you'll like it. . . .

http://www.cbsnews.com/sections/sunday/main3445.shtml

Remembering A Legend . . . .

2011-10-06T01:25:00.001-04:00

The world lost an amazing, brilliant, innovative risk taker on Wednesday, October 5 when Steve Jobs passed. His creative genius made a difference in the lives of millions. Who would have thought two kids putterin' around in a garage would change the world?

I've never met Steve Jobs or his Apple co-founder Steve Wozniack but they both became part of "my" story. In my early 30's I happened upon computers and purchased my first Apple ][ Plus. What an exhilarating, heady time that was. To my delight, I discovered "I got it" when it came to these personal computers. I embraced the technology, first learning the hardware, then the software. What fun the early years were. A friend used to tell me "In the land of the blind the one eyed man is King." How true!

Over the years folks like Jobs, Woz, Gates, Ellison, Bushnell, McNealy (the list is so long) were followed, quoted and talked about by those of us in the industry. We really didn't know them but we all knew their stories. They became part of our story, they were the guys in the forefront whose innovations were something to understand and master. We weren't the innovators but we were touched by them, we felt a kinship with them. Their creations became part of our world and a whole new industry was created for us to support. We needed their genius and they needed our ability to evangilize their inventions.

October 5, 2011 marks the passing of Steve Jobs. For many of us, a world without Steve Jobs will be a little less bright, a little less creative, simply a little less. I'm sad he's gone. Good bye Steve. God Speed.

Rescue is hard. . . .

2011-08-10T12:21:00.001-04:00

Rescue is hard. Most of the dogs are abused, neglected, and have health issues. We take these dogs into our homes and our hearts and help them heal. For me, medical problems are the easiest part. I have a good vet and easy access to some of the best specialists in the country. Fosters receive the best medical care available and our wonderful vet eases the pain and helps restore them to good health.

We work on the emotional and mental damage. We teach the fosters that hands don't hurt, that dogs are not allowed to fight, that there will always be good food, fresh water, special treats, and lots of patience. We show them there are good and kind people and that love is unconditional. We give them time to understand they are safe and when we think they are ready, we start looking for their forever home.

Rescue is hard. It hurts to let a dog go to a forever home. Some are easier to let go than others. I once had a puppy who was so full of energy that I celebrated when his adopters picked him up. They enjoyed the running, playing and silly antics of a youngster - he drained me beyond words. I've delivered dogs to adopters who cried for joy when they met their new dog in person - much easier to let go when you know how loved they will be. Only twice have I adopted out dogs that I really did not want to let go.

The first was a tiny Yorkie named Chewy. The adopters actually came to look at another dog but Chewy immediately fell head over heels in love with one of them. He jumped in Bruce's lap, he cuddled, he performed a number of adorable antics, he charmed everyone and surprised the daylights out of me. Chewy's message was clear - "I'm your dog. Take me home." I took him with me on the home visit and he acted as though he had been there his entire life. They had a wonderful yellow lab named Buddy who also fell under Chewy's spell. Chewy was right, this was his home. I was happy for Chewy and his two dads but sad for me, I loved that little guy but I knew this was the best home for him. Rescue is hard but it's not about us, it's about the dogs. I let Chewy go because he had found his dads - what else could I do? He was home.

And then there was Duke. He came with Lexi and darn if they weren't two precious, tiny little Yorkies. Prior to coming here, Duke had a fight with a labrador and his left eye had popped out. There was no sight in that eye but there was a lot of pain so it had to be removed. Our vet prescribed strong pain meds but sometimes the pain broke through during the first few days. I would give him more pain meds and quietly talk with him until the medication kicked in. I confess, Duke stole my heart. He had such courage and such a bold, loving spirit. When we were told a potential adopter wanted both Duke & Lexi we were happy they could stay together but I really did not want to let him go. Still, this is what we do so we put Duke and Lexi on a transport with another foster mom who escorted him to his new home.

Duke and Lexi had a rocky start at their new home but everyone adjusted and they settled right in. I learned the other day that a few months ago Duke got away from his owner and he "went after" a much larger dog. The larger dog killed him. What can I say? Reading that took my breath away. I'm angry that he was killed by a larger dog. I'm angry that I found out only because I sent a note asking how he was. I'm so angry that I let him go to this couple and yet. . . . I know that is not fair. I know they loved him and I know they were saddened by his death. I feel sadness for this couple who opened their home and heart to Duke and Lexi. I feel sorry for Lexi who has always had Duke as a buddy. And I am sorry Duke is gone.

His bright light and courageous heart was extinguished much too soon. The hardest part of rescue is saying Goodbye.

Duke before his eye surgery.

Good bye sweet boy. God Speed.

The Help

2011-06-29T08:22:00.000-04:00

I just finished reading the book The Help by Kathryn Stockett and I'm surprised at the memories it brings back. Mississippi in the '60's may have been more racist than Ohio, but I think that's because we were a little more subtle. The same feelings of superiority and the unkind, belittling comments occurred here too.

As I get older, I realzie there are so many positive changes our children and grandchildren don't recognize. They don't know how far we've come, they don't really understand where we started. The Help tells the story of the plight of black people in the '60's. Every day whites and every day blacks living their lives in Mississippi and what it was like to be black in America fifty years ago. For some of us, the book brings back memories, for out children and grandchildren it is the story of their parents, grandparents and great grandparents.

It's a good book, a good read, a history lesson and a reminder of the amazing courage of an oppressed segment of our population. The legacy of Martin Luther King, Medgar Evers and the Freedom Riders is fairly well known, but this book also reminds us that the maids, the laborers, the every day folks, displayed courage, dignity and honor to claim their rights. If you are under 40, this is a must read. . .

Where does the time go?

2011-05-09T13:37:00.000-04:00

In April of 2010 my husband had surgery to repair an abdominal aortic aneurysm. At some point, he is going to need a second surgery for another much smaller aneurysm that was noted in the MRI. His cardiologist told him he needed to stop smoking to prevent a heart attack. Although he has cut back considerably, he still has not been able to kick the habit.

I knew it would be impossible for him to stop smoking if I continued to smoke so I decided once and for all, I too had to quit. Somewhere around the middle of April 2010, I became a non-smoker. I also became a nibbler and surprisingly (to me) less active. In a little over a year, I gained 27 lbs. My 5 foot frame really can't comfortably support an additional 27 lbs.

I've moaned and groaned about the weight for the better part of a year but I really haven't taken ownership of it and decided to actively lose it. Well, today's the day. I need to lose 27 lbs and I need to get in shape. No more putting it off, no more hoping I wake up thin in the morning. Okay, I'm probably still going to hope I wake up thin tomorrow but I'm sure enough that's not going to happen that I'm actively working on Plan B.

From time to time I'll post updates mostly because if I'm keeping a record I'm more likely to follow through, not to mention complain. I have several reasons for deciding to get back in shape, first - I feel wrong in my skin, it doesn't fit. Second, I don't feel healthy. Third, - I don't like how I look and last but not least - I refuse to buy a larger size than what I'm currently wearing.

And now, moving along with my exciting life, it's time to go pooper scoop. Catch ya later.

Saying goodbye to a great cat. . . .

2011-02-17T12:36:00.000-05:00

We said goodbye to our 19 year old cat Data this morning. He was a great cat who first learned to deal with our chow chow Bear and then, as the years passed, he learned to thrive in a house full of dogs. Like all cats, he did what he wanted, when he wanted and he taught us to love that streak of independence. We learned well.

Data just a few months ago relaxing with the dogs.

He loved to lay in the doorways and make us (and the dogs) step over him. He thought it was funny to grab our pant leg or hook a claw in a dog so none of us ever forgot who really ran the show around here.

Like all cats, Data lived his life on his own terms. If he wanted his ears scratched or a belly rub, he came to us. The rest of the time, he stuck his nose in the air and ignored us. When the mood hit him he'd play with the dogs and if they annoyed him, he would chase them away. He was an indoor cat who learned to use the doggie door. Laying in the sun on the deck gave him enormous pleasure. Did I mention he was a great cat?

Data on the deck this fall.

About a month ago, Data started having problems keeping food down, he stopped eating his cat food so we started giving him tuna fish, chicken and rice, anything we could get him to eat. Six days ago he stopped eating even the tiny amounts of tuna and chicken. He was skin and bones. But he kept playing with the dogs, hopped in my lap, seemed to still be happy and comfortable. Two days ago, the purr went away. Last night he lost control of his bladder and bowels. I held him all night and told him it was okay, he could leave, I'd understand. Still he stayed with us.

Two days ago, he was so thin but still perky.

Early this morning I knew I couldn't let this go on. I had hoped he would just go to sleep and not wake up but sadly that was not to be. I called the vet and said, it's time. Data and I made one last trip together. Did I mention he was a great cat? Good bye Data, Mom loved you and I'll miss you forever. . . . . God Speed Precious boy.

Bernie comes to visit. . .

2011-02-08T21:41:00.000-05:00

This is Bernie the long haired Dachshund. Isn't he a riot? He belongs to a friend who is vacationing in Florida. Bernie is visiting at Camp Spoiled Royals and having the time of his life.

He is very agile for a long bodied dog, here he is perched on the ottoman.

And here he is in doggie heaven playing with several of our pack. At the moment he is an "only" dog at home with no playmates. (His best buddy passed away a month or so ago.) He adores Nicki and plays with her all day. When Oscar and Joey join in, it sounds like a herd of elephants running through the house. They are all hilarious.

More later. . . . .

Snowed in . . . . . again

2011-01-20T14:52:00.000-05:00

Small, wet, snowflakkes have been coming down since early this morning.

First I made up a basket of belly bands for the male dogs with potty issues.

Then I decided to make up chicken & rice for the dogs so the chicken is now in the crock pot slowly cooking. It will be ready to add rice, carrots, garlic & green beans tomorrow.

Then my sweet tooth kicked in so I made chocolate chip and snicker doodle cookies.

As long as I was cooking, I decided to make stuffed peppers and freeze them for the weekend.

Since the stuff peppers are for the weekend I think we'll have spaghetti for supper tonight. I browned a little hot Italian sausage, onions, green pepper and mushrooms. . . .

Then I mixed in a can of tomatoe sauce, diced tomatoes w/Jalepeno peppers, paste, spices and let it cook for a few hours. Yum.

So that's what I did with my day, what did you do with yours?

Snow. . . .

2011-01-11T14:03:00.000-05:00

I took the dogs outside about an hour ago and snapped a few photos. Doesn't it look pretty? Do I have to tell you how glad I am that I don't have to go to work in this or drive in it?

This grist mill houses a chipmunk in the summer. It loves to drive the dogs crazy. Today, the Spoiled Royals get the last laugh. Of course, spring is a mere few months away. . .

I swept the snow off the deck, put the broom away and already it was starting to get covered. Gaylin ran out and started eating snow. Silly boy.

Snow covered lights. . . .

and chimineas.

Oh yeah, lots of toys were in the yard so I tossed them back on the deck. My dogs do love toys.

Nicki is the only foster here at the moment. I'm hoping either our daughter or a friend will adopt her. Isn't she gorgeous? She is a great dog, and available for adoption through Just A Touch Rescue. I can't imagine why someone dumped her in the country. . . . .

This is just one of a hundred reasons why I so love my husband. He built this a few months ago. I'm not sure what I did to deserve him, but I send a prayer of thanks out daily. The older dogs find the ramp so helpful.

30796 - the dog in the back room

2010-12-17T11:10:00.000-05:00

I don't usually post the same info on both of my blogs but the story of dog 30796 needs to be told until Ohio legislators "get it." I wrote the blog below on December 22, 2008 for a group I used to work with. Sadly in the 2 years since this was written little had changed for the thousands of dogs who are still suffering in sub-standard kennels in Ohio. 30796, the dog in the story below, could be Mason, Prince, Oscar, Holly, Punkin, Myla or Callie - they all came from sub-standard kennels and anyone of them could be the dog below:

Hello, is anyone there? I thought I heard someone, I guess not. I am so lonely. There are other dogs here but I am in a cage all by myself in a back room in this building. There are no windows so I cannot see very much. I do not know if it is day or night but it is dark and cold. There are cracks in the walls and the snow and wind are blowing. I'm so cold I cannot stop shivering.

I'm hungry and thirsty, it has been a long time since The Man came in here. He put water in my dish but it froze before I could get enough to drink. He threw some hard, dry food in my bowl and his hand hurt me when I went to get a drink of water. I don't like hands - they hurt. After The Man left, I ate some food. It hurt my mouth. I heard someone say that my teeth are abscessed, I'm not sure what that is, but I know when I put something in my mouth it hurts.

Everything hurts me. My eyes are so sore and my hair sticks to the corners when the runny stuff comes out. My ears ache and smelly stuff oozes from them and mats the hair together. It hurts. When I try to move to get comfortable, the hair on my belly and neck and legs is all one big, huge mat and it pulls and hurts really bad. I am so cold and hungry and thirsty and I hurt.

I heard the children talking the other day. They were playing in the snow and talking about something called Christmas. They are very excited about Santa Claus. Apparently, this Santa Claus person checks to see if the children were naughty or nice and then he brings them many presents. They make a wish list and if they were nice, Santa fills it.

Later, I heard The Man and The Woman talking and they said that my puppies all sold at the pet store so Santa would be very good to the children this year. Is that you Santa? Can you hear me? Do you care about dogs? Just in case you do, I'm going to send you my wish list:

I wish for a home, a real one, where I can live inside and have food to eat every day and where there is always fresh water (the kind that is not frozen please.)

I wish for a human with a soft voice and a soft touch to love me. Just me. I wish for them to talk to me softly, to love me gently and to protect me from The Man and The Woman.

I wish for a bath and I wish for my hair to be brushed so that it flows pretty like the dogs in the pictures. I wish to be clean and mat free.

I wish to go to the veterinarian and get my teeth fixed. I wish that my mouth would stop hurting, my eyes would stop seeping, and my ears would no longer cause me pain.

I wish to be warm in the winter and cool in the summer with no fleas or ticks or parasites or heart worms to bother me.

I have a lifetime of love I've been saving to give a human, so yes please, I wish for my very own human. I want to give them nose licks and kisses, I want to protect them from strangers and alert them if a leaf falls in the yard. I want to welcome them when they come home every day. I want to share their life in good times and bad and I want to show them how special they are and make sure they know they are the best person in the whole wide world.

I wish for my own name, I think I would like to be called Angela.

Please Santa; take me away from this cold, dark place. I'm a good lilttle dog and I have so much to give, please help me. I'm so very, very cold.

Thank you for considering my wish list,

30796 - the dog in the back room

2010-12-06T12:17:00.000-05:00

There's snow on the ground, maybe an inch, not all that much but it's cold (18 degrees F). One of the best things about being retired is being able to stay home and not have to venture outside unless I want to. I bundled up earlier, took all the dogs out to potty and then came inside, gave everyone a treat, grabbed a cup of coffee, a book and a throw and hopped on the sofa to read. Cuddling on the sofa with a pack of dogs and a good book is a great way to spend a few hours. . . . .

That's Sweetie, one of our Yorkies, on the left and Punkin, one of our Poms on the right.

Then again our 20 year old grand daughter who currently lives with us, bundled up and walked to the library earlier today. I suppose when you are twenty, its not that big a deal but I'm pretty sure you couldn't pay me to walk 2 miles in this weather. (I'm keeping my options open in case someone wants to offer me a million dollars to take the hike. There's a slim possibility I'll say yes.)

This is Tucker the Llhasa Apso mix in the green sweater and the little Yorkie in the blue shirt is Gaylin. The View From the Gazebo is mighty fine when viewed with these guys!

Some of my Favorite Websites

2010-10-23T11:17:00.000-04:00

Daily Chuckle Website: http://drawthedog.com/?page_id=2

Okay, I confess, I laugh at funny dog cartoons. Mostly because the majority of them hit so close to home. Two guys, Jim George (the artist) and Bruce Kasanoff (the guy who does everything else) created this website and it is a daily delight. You can subscribe to their mail list and have a daily cartoon sent to your email address automatically. It's totally free and sure to put a smile on your face.

Free Books: http://www.gutenberg.org/wiki/Main_Page

Download 33,000 books from Project Gutenberg's website. If you live in the USA, the copyrights for all of these books have expired - if you live outside the USA, you'll need to double check. Downloads are in several formats: Kindle, Nook, IPad and several others. Although the books are free, they do ask for a small donation if you can afford it and it's such a wonderful project that I hope everyone who downloads a book will send in a donation.

Of course, if you own a Kindle, you can get many other books for free at http://www.amazon.com/ website - it's a great way to meet new authors and explore their work.

Fun Window Shopping sites: http://www.collectionsetc.com/

Collections, Etc. has such fun items and all are reasonably priced. My favorite site to look for "stuff" - you know all the things we really don't need but are such fun to window shop?

Yet another confession - I love QVC too: http://www.qvc.com/

Mrs. Prindable's apples are terrific, the "Lunch time specials" are often great buys and overall I find their products and service excellent!

Bloomingtails Dog Boutique: The slickest Dog related website has to be: http://www.bloomingtailsdogboutique.com/

My dogs have collected a huge wardrobe over the years but I have to admit that the items that came from Bloomingtails are unquestionably the nicest. I have a hairless Chinese Crested and he is still wearing outfits purchased several years ago. Love this place!

Pet Treats: http://www.sunshinepettreats.com/

My pack love pup corn by Sunshine Mills - this is the place that makes them.
Animal Welfare Related Website: http://www.imom.org/

My all time favorite animal welfare website has to be In Memory Of Magic, also known as IMOM. This website provides financial assistance to qualifying pet owners whose pets need life saving medical assistance immediately. The IRS approved charity has been around since 1998 and has paid in excess of $1,300,000 to veterinarians and pharmacies on behalf of pets in need. This is a tiny, grass roots charity that operates with no paid employees, no physical office, everything is done via the internet. The handful of volunteers are located all over the USA and they are connected to each other via their computers and their telephones.

Other favorite websites:
Youtube.com is one of my all time favorite websites. I can watch a Susan Boyle be discovered, a flash mob do a spectacular dance, a dog roller boarding, kittens being silly or a group of women save a herd of horses. Youtube videos can make me laugh or cry or think.

Huffingtonpost.com; Womansday.com; Reader's Digest website: rd.com; news.discovery.com ('cause there are such interesting articles on this site); CMT.com for my country music fix and have to check out these websites periodically to see what some of my favorite celebrities are up to:
Ellen DeGeneres: http://ellen.warnerbros.com/ & Rachel Ray: http://www.rachaelray.com/.

And last, but not least, my favorite game on facebook, that I clearly spend too much time playing but enjoy anyway: Bejeweled Blitz: http://apps.facebook.com/bejeweledblitz/?lpt=bookmark&ref=bookmarks&count=0

Feel free to share some of your favorite websites too!

Do you know what it means to be poor?

2010-10-06T09:28:00.007-04:00

I thought I knew what it meant to be "poor" but I found out recently that I didn't have a clue. My understanding of the every day of "poor" isn't/wasn't close to the reality. My oldest daughter has been unemployed for more than 2 years and ran out of unemployment compensation a few months ago. She is currently living in a horrible apartment in a bad part of town with her 6 year old son and her unemployed, 21 year old daughter (who also has a 10 month old baby.) The 4 of them are living in the one bedroom apartment and our other grandaughter is here temporarily.

I knew about poor housing and ugly yards. I didn't know landlords in Ohio are permitted to rent homes or apartments with wall cracks so large that plants grow inside the house from the outside. I didn't know they are permitted to rent places where the mold grows on the walls, where the furnace doesn't work and where the appliances that are included in the price of the rent don't work. I didn't know it is permissible to rent places that have holes in the walls, crumbling steps, rotten porches, exposed outlets. I didn't know security deposits are never returned to the poor because they have no way to force a wealthy landlord to do so. To complain is to be removed from the apartment - the poor have learned if they speak up they will lose whatever shelter they have. It may be mean and ugly but it's a roof over their heads.

I never understood the spirit crushing agony of being poor. I had no idea of the roadblocks and hurdles the poor are subjected to daily. They are charged fees that reduce their already meager funds because they are powerless. They are forced to wait in lines for hours for services whether it is to apply for foodstamps or see a doctor. Scheduled appointments mean nothing to the professionals who are paid to help the poor. The poor are forced to wait and wait for everything. To be poor is to have their phone calls put on hold for endless waits (I timed several "holds" for my one grandaughter - 35 minutes was average.) They are expected to politely and graciously deal with rude and unkind comments made by those who are paid to help them. To snap back is to be sent to the end of the line. To demand respect is to be forced to jump through through endless hoops as punishment by those who can abuse them. To be poor is to be shamed and humiliated on a daily basis.

When my daughter was receiving unemployment, she made too much money to receive medical assistance via Medicaid. She injured her knee and with no medical insurance could not get it diagnosed or treated. She can barely walk. She lives a few miles from Job & Family Services, the agency that helped her with a temporary cash allowance of $355 a month after her unemployment ran out. Walking there is impossible for her. A bus pass is a luxury she can not afford. After paying $350 for rent, she had $5 for utilities, bus passes, items such as toilet paper or cleaning products that can not be purchased with food stamps. She moves often as she rarely can afford the rent for more than a few months. Each move results in lost boxes. She can't locate her birth certificate which is needed to apply for additional aid. The department of Vital Statistics, another state agency, is just down the road a few miles and could provide a copy of her birth certificate but it will cost her $21.50 and she doesn't have the funds. Talk about a catch 22. Wouldn't you think one state agency could simply call another and receive confirmation? She thinks that may be why her case was closed but doesn't know because she can't get her caseworker on the phone, she can't afford to stay on hold for 35-40 minutes and she can't get a call back.

I love my daughter but I know that her decisions and her actions have brought her to where she is in life. I know that she and our grand daughters have had resources available to them to help them live a better life. This isn't really a diatribe on their behalf, rather a realization that we, as a society, are often unkind to the poorest amoung us. Stores charge them a fee to use their cash cards simply because the poor have no leverage and can not fight a $1 or $2 charge. We charge them $1.50 and up to purchase a money order and as much as 5%-7% to cash a check. They are charged relatively high rent for really horrid apartments. Society devalues them and their time by making them wait hours even with a scheduled appointment and withholds something as simple as kindness. Being poor often means being undervalued and unseen. How sad is that?

Rambling thoughts . . .

2010-09-06T17:18:00.007-04:00

A mish mosh of thoughts and comments . . . .

Several months ago my hubby decided to redo the wood floor in the bedroom which meant we had to empty the room. He decided to also do the closet and install new closet doors. Then his aneurysm needed taken care of so the work on the bedroom stopped. Of coursse then spring and summer came along and energies were directed to outside work. Inside, things have been in disarray for months. A week or so ago, he stripped, stained and sealed the wood floor, got the new closet doors fitted and now he's working on the trim. We are slowly putting things back together and I hope in another week or two and we should be done. Hooray!

I was reminded this week why Nora Roberts is one of my favorite authors. (She also writes the "In Death" series under the name J.D. Robb and every 3 or 4 years I go back and read the entire series from the beginning to the most current book.) This past week I reread her "Circle Trilogy" from 2006 and once again found myself enchanted. As I closed the final book in the trilogy, I thought to myself, damn! she is a mighty fine story teller!

From books to TV - The View is back live today (reruns have been running for a month or so) and I was sad to learn Whoopi Goldberg lost her Mother on 8/29. Whoopi's eloquent statement that "no one will ever love me like that again" was a beautiful and quiet tribute to her Mom. Even though I know she will never see this, I extend my condolences.

What? What's that? I hear a book, a dozen dogs, & the gazebo calling. . . . . . . . see ya later

More families. . .

2010-07-26T10:17:00.003-04:00

Two of my younger sisters, plus my BIL, niece and nephew came down on Sunday for a cook out. We all had a great time although I forgot to take photos until everyone was ready to leave. It has been an unusually hot summer and Sunday was no exception. I think it was in the 90's, however we did have a burst of rain in the afternoon. Once it stopped we had heat and humitity - not the nicest weather but still better than a blizzard. LOL

The tall blonde, Zoey, is standing between her dad, Jeff and mom, Carol. I happen to know that Zoey has many, many pants with no holes. I'm learning that this look is in style and that I am not.

My nephew Joey spent a lot of the day drawing a cartoon based on Avatar (he's actually pretty good) and as you can see, drawfs his mom Cathy. (Of course at 5 feet, it's not all that hard to dwarf her. LOL)

Anyway, it was a fun day and nice to catch up with everyone.

Families. . .

2010-07-26T09:01:00.006-04:00

My husband's three sisters & their spouses, as well as one of his brothers came down over the weekend for a visit. What a pleasant day we had.

As much as we love living in Columbus (and we do love it), we are a couple of hours away from our closest siblings. Sure, we can call, and for those who use computers we can email. Still, it's not the same as visiting face to face. The reality is that those who live close to one another don't necessarily visit back and forth all that much either. Proximity seems to imply that a quick visit is possible so it can wait until later. We all think there will be plenty of time to visit. . . . . . tomorrow. Well, "tomorrow" came and it was a good day.

It was an enjoyable day (except Oscar, our hairless Chinese Crested, was a bit grouchy.) Fortunately, family members were kind enough to tolerate his cantankerousness, and everyone seemed to enjoy a lazy, kicked back visit. We did the usual. . . ate, talked, caught up, laughed, looked at photos and said "we should do this more often."

Who remembers us as youngsters better than our brothers and sisters? Who knew us as a young bride or groom and watched us grow into decent young adults, respectable parents, empty nesters and yes - senior citizens? Who else knows the best and the worst about us and still loves us? Who else understands not only our strengths but also our weaknesses and still accepts us with open arms?

After everyone left to go home, we reflected on the day. Although we don't see everyone as much as we would like, we were reminded how lucky we are to be part of this family.

SB 95 - Please support. . .

2010-06-03T11:23:00.008-04:00

I've been chatting back and forth with several rescue friends about SB 95. Late last night I received another email from a rescue friend who forwarded an email exchange that had been started by MOS inserting several comments I made about a year ago on the Stop Ohio Puppymills Yahoo group in response to questions about the bill.

My comments were used out of context and without permission. This blog is to clarify my thoughts on SB 95.

Since I have not reread the bill since I wrote the original comments in May and June of 2009 and I haven't checked to see if the modifications are available online, I don't know which, if any, changes would impact my original thoughts. That said, even if the bill has changed very little, I am still asking my senator to support the bill.

I know that many involved in rescue don't like the provisions that deal specifically with rescue organizations in Ohio. I understand not wanting someone to come to your home unannounced to do an inspection. However, if I want to stop the person who calls them self "rescue" and keeps dogs in deplorable conditions, then I have to be willing to be inspected. So do you. Basically it involves pulling up our big girl panties and agreeing to walk the talk.

I believe shelters, pounds and humane societies should be included in the bill and this is the biggest sticking point for me. If even one shelter, pound or humane society in this state is as abusive (or more so) to their charges as some of the breeders and hoarders, they should be included. We all know there is more than one of each type that fits the bill. I don't like letting them off the hook and I don't agree with the statement that the intention of the bill does not include these groups - it's a pen stroke to include them and they should be required to follow the same standards as everyone else. Still, I'll support the bill even if shelters, pounds and humane societies are exempt because half a loaf is better than none. There are other parts of the bill I don't care for, but here's what I dislike even more:

1. It's the beginning of summer, the outside temperatures are reaching 75-80 degrees which means the inside temperatures of unventilated buildings are easily reaching 85-90 degrees and as the temperatures rise outside, so will they rise inside. Dogs are suffering and it is only going to get worse.
2. Of course, if it were November 25 the situation would be the same except we would be talking about temperatures in the high 20's or low 30's and dogs would be suffering from the cold.
3. I don't like the fact that "rescue organizations" have literally no oversight at all in Ohio. Whether they are an individual or whether they are listed as a 501(c)3, "rescues" literally have carte blanch in most cities, towns, counties to do whatever they want. Unless a specific city, town or county requires licensing and annual or biannual inspections, they can pretty much house and care for hundreds of dogs anyway they want with no intervention.

4. The fact that many rescues are good and take excellent care of their dogs does not mean the poorly thought out, or poorly run, or hoarders/collectors posing as rescues should be allowed to ride on the coat tails of the good rescues and not be stopped.
5. I think "rescue" should have a clear definition whether it is one person or a group or a large organization and I don't think it is a bad thing to hold rescue groups accountable. Should a state authority be able to set adoption fees? No, I don't think so, because ultimately, that will result in cherry picking which dogs rescue groups can afford to take in - I don't know if Kelli's explanation is accurate as that is not what the bill says, however, I would be willing to chance it in order to have rescue groups included in the bill.
6. I don't like taking in dogs that are so matted I can't tell their heads from their tails - literally.
7. I don't like taking in dogs that must have an eye removed because it was in a fight with a larger dog that hurt it so badly that enucleation is the only pain free option available.
8. I don't like months of antibiotics for severe ear infections that return for a year or two until we are able to finally get on top of them.
9. I don't like severely damaged feet and legs from cages in poor repair or dog fights that result in either large medical bills and/or amputations.
10. I don't like malnourished dogs that are anemic from fleas and ticks literally sucking their life blood away.
11. I don't like what is going on in Ohio among some breeders and among some who call themselves rescue because what they are doing is harming dogs.
12. I don't like females coming into rescue with pyometra and only having hours to save them.
13. I know that I can not justify dogs continuing to suffer until the "perfect law" is written because the perfect law doesn't exist but the dog's suffering does.

14. I know that dogs are suffering in Ohio and they will continue to suffer until we do something. This bill may not be perfect and I may not like everything in it, but it is better than what we have now which is NOTHING!

SB 95 is not perfect, it never will be. I don't have all of the answers but the fact is, neither do any of you. Every individual be it breeder or rescue has a different opinion on what constitutes "good and appropriate care." We have personality differences between members of the same rescue group and those of different groups. We each think "our" way is the best. We all believe we know what a good law will look like and of course it is "our" version of the law. Bottom line is none of this is helping the dogs. There may be parts of this bill I really dislike but enough to actively fight it???? No, I want to see a bill in place that will help the dogs.

Sadly, while we all argue among ourselves, dogs are suffering. So while I have said many, many times that no law is better than a bad law - I have to change my position - this law will help stop the suffering and that's something everyone should agree on.

Dogs are dying while we continue to have a pissing contest with one another over this bill. We need to recognize the perfect bill doesn't exist and it can not be written because someone will always disagree with some part. We need to stop perceiving the bill as a personal affront to our ability to rescue and see it as a bill to help the dogs. This is not about individuals it is about the dogs that need our help. Unless someone has a better bill ready to go right now (and McKenzie's law is not better - it's a nice try but not the answer) then I'm supporting SB 95. Ohio dogs are suffering. Now. It needs to stop. Now. So for what I hope is the last time, pull up your big girl panites, suck it up and support SB 95.

Columbus Clippers

2010-05-31T18:28:00.003-04:00

We went to a baseball game at the Huntington Park downtown on Saturday. What a great park! Not huge but plenty big enough, very nice and I really enjoyed seeing so many families with youngsters and even little babies.

The "SuperStars," characters that were sort of cartoonish, sort of air filled larger than life entertainers were a nice treat for kids of all ages. The mackeral that ate the little boy was worth the price of a ticket. (Don't ask, just go see them when you get the chance!)

Take a look at the Huntington Park http://tinyurl.com/2ez3jma and then make plans to visit when you are in the area. Great time!

I don't get it (and other odd things. . .)

2010-01-24T08:50:00.002-05:00

Page Six in the New York Post reports Sean Salisbury, a former ESPN sports anaylist acknowledged using his cell phone to take a photo of his penis and showed it to co-workers? For the record - this person is over the age of three.

KMGH Denver - Channel 7 news is reporting a United Airlines flight from Washington DC to Las Vegas made an emergency stop in Denver to remove a male passenger who tried to open a door on the airplane while it was in flight.

Fox news reports a 22 yr old Michigan college student was terrorized by a TSA employee in Philadephia's airport when he reached into her laptop bag and pulled out a plastic bag of white powder and demanded to know where the powder came from. After a tearful denial of any knowledge of the bag by the college student, he smiled, laughed and told her he was kidding - the bag of white powder was his. Although he is no longer employed by the TSA, the agency refuses to answer whether he resigned or was fired.

I don't get it. What were these people thinking?

Jacki - A Christmas Miracle

2009-12-10T08:47:00.005-05:00

Afer Jacki's owner died last year her remaining family gave her to a dog breeder who put her in a barn, in a cage and there she lived. From a warm home to a cold cage, from belly rubs to fear - how traumatized she must have been.

Just before Thanksgiving, the breeder contacted a rescuer and offered her Jacki. In the process of putting Jacki in the crate for transport, Jacki, who was terrified, bit her rescuer and the nightmare began.

The rescuer, who has a low immune system, ended up in the hospital with a severe infection and Jacki was being cared for by friends. Somewhere along the way, animal control picked up Jacki and took her to the shelter and placed her in quarantine. Since she was originally destined to come into a rescue group one of the members called the shelter to check on her. The person answering the phone said Jacki would be euthanized as soon as her quarantine was up. The subject was closed. It didn't matter there was a licensed rescue who wanted to take Jacki and place her in an experienced foster home where she would live out her days. Jacki would be euthanized. Period. No discussion, no reprieve. Dead - because that was what was best for Jacki. A second call elicited the same response from a second person. Jacki was going to die because that is what was best for her. End of discussion.

Those of us who do rescue understand that we can't save them all, but sometimes, a certain dog will touch us in a way we can't explain. Rescue friends called the shelter asking them to reconsider, polite emails were sent asking for a reprieve and the staff at the shelter was adamant - Jacki would die because that was what was best for her.

Another person called the shelter and a kinder person answered the phone. The call was transferred to the Director who explained Jacki had been badly neglected. She was old, had cataracts, long toe nails, lumps on her body, and she was terrified. He was outraged on Jacki's behalf - no dog should ever be treated the way she had been treated; the family sent her to the shelter and asked to have her put down. Ahhhh, now we understood - so the person explained Jacki's real history and begged to let her go to the rescue where she would stay as a forever foster in one home with one experienced owner - please just let us prove who we are.

And the Director listened. He agreed to research the rescue if they would fax a current license from the state, another rescue person did so immediately. More calls, more emails, more time - a decision would be made on Monday. The only available driver was several hours from the shelter so Monday morning, with an absolute belief that the Director would do what was best for Jacki, the journey of a thousand miles began. A call was made to the shelter to tell them a rescuer was on the way and they were told - "No decision had been made - there's no guarantee the dog will be released to you." Faith, either you believe in miracles or you don't - the driver did, "I'm on my way, I'll call again later." "It's your choice," was the response. Yet is it. The driver kept going.

Two and a half hours into the trip, the driver's phone rang - "Where are you? What state? Your dog is here waiting for you!" said Judy, the kind lady who had originally put the call through to the Director several days ago. "I'm still a few hours away, but I'm coming, thank you, thank you!" Calls went out to fellow rescuers - "Yes! Yes! We can have her! I'm on my way!" Word spread, prayers of thanks stormed heaven!

The driver met a rescue friend closer to the shelter who led the way and the two went inside to pick up Jacki. The Director was unavailable but he had left word to release Jacki to the driver. Robin, the ACO who greeted the two rescuers clearly was not happy the dog was going to be released. Robin was rude, overbearing and insulting. She had nothing good to say about the rescue group or the rescuers who worked so hard to save Jacki's life. The two rescuers listened, one of them was even polite, the goal was to get Jacki out of there, not educate a fool. Papers were signed, a much reduced fee was paid (thanks to a kind Director) and then Jacki was brought out, placed in the driver's vehicle and as soon as politely possible, the two rescue people left. The minute the driver left the shelter property a call was placed to her foster mom - "I've got her, she's safe!" Joy, relief and love came through the phone- "Thank God" said her foster mom. Indeed, Thank God!

Jacki spent a safe, peaceful night at the driver's home and the next morning jumped right into the vehicle when asked. The last leg of her journey began - perhaps she knew she was going home. When the driver and foster mom met several hours later, Jacki put her paws in her new Mom's lap and gave her a kiss. I think Jacki knew - like hearts recognized each other.

Jacki was neglected, terrified, and miserable yet there was something about her that called out to a little rescue group a thousand miles away. Rescue people from all over the country worked on her behalf with calls, emails, providing requested paperwork and sending prayers. The right person answered the phone at the right time. The Director agreed to listen, he investigated and agreed to release her to the rescue group.

At the end of the trip, the driver added up the miles - 1027 miles in two days. Quite a journey for such a little dog - but not so far when you consider that Jacki's release was a Christmas Miracle given to a little rescue group that steadfastly believes in them.

Jacki is safe, she is no longer terrified. She is home. She is our Christmas Miracle.

A few of my Favorite things. . . .

2009-11-09T17:37:00.003-05:00

Ellen DeGeneres, what is there to say? She is smart, funny and quick witted. She keeps me in stitches and I try to catch her show as often as possible. (She's on during the dogs regular outside play time so sometimes I'm running back & forth between the TV & the yard.) Her "O, Yes I can" campaign to get on the cover of O Magazine was hilarious (and successful!) You can watch scenes from the photo shoot on her website this week: www.ellen.warnerbros.com. It is a fun video to watch and Ellen's humor and Oprah's good nature come through. Take a peek.

While watching Bravo's The Actor's Studio yesterday, the audience (including me) was treated to a visit with Hilary Swank - two time Oscar winner and all around nice person. You can see part of the program here: www.bravotv.com/inside-the-actors-studio.

The story of another facinating person is the subject of an upcoming Swank movie - Betty Ann Waters, who was a high school drop out when her brother was falsely accused and convicted of murder. Betty Ann worked her way through college and law school so she could take up her brother's defense. He spent 18 years in prison shile she earned her law degree and helped free him through DNA evidence. Amazing story.

And last but not least, I enjoy a good laugh - I hope you do too - from the Reader's Digest Website, read about the world's dumbest criminals: http://tinyurl.com/y9k6cu6

November Blessings. . . .

2009-11-02T11:24:00.005-05:00

I love fall - definitely my favorite season. Today, the sun was out and there was a little nip in the air. The dogs all went outside and played for a bit this morning while I went around cleaning up the yard. I get such a kick out of them when I'm walking around pooper scooping and they line up behind me and follow me through the yard. I feel like the pied piper. lol

The dogs in the photo to the left are Prince, the Devil Dog (Maltese in upper left corner), Gaylin the Yorkie, Mason the Magnificent slightly behind Gaylin, Callie the Chihuahua and Joey, the Maltese in front.

I am so thankful to the rescue that took Joey the little Maltese and when they determined they couldn't keep him, contacted me and sent him back. Joey is a great little dog with a lot of medical problems and to the uninitiated, a disconcerting growly way of talking. I'm not really sure what happen but I suspect the way he talks caught them off guard and they thought he was doing an angry dog growl and that frightened them. Fear is so easy to communicate to a dog and once they know you are fearful, it's difficult to get them to mind.

We have a very stable pack of dogs here and I've gotten used to watching them to see how they react. If no one pays attention to a growl, I know it's Joey's way of communicating and not a threat or warning. If one of my dogs goes on alert, I immediately stop Joey's behavior with a finger snap and a no growl command. He settles down right and gets a head scratch as a reward and off we go to the next adventure. The rescue group who had him is known to euthanize dogs they consider biters so I am glad he was sent back to us. He is not a biter, just a dog who needs positive reinforcement to understand how to behave.

Well, it's about time to feed the pack so I'm off for the next adventure.

Issue 2 in Ohio - Why I changed my mind. . . .

2009-11-01T15:53:00.006-05:00

After going back & forth for two months on Issue 2, initially in favor of it passing - I have come to the conclusion this issue needs a resounding NO!

At the end of the day, it has to be about the animals. I am not amused by the politics that took place regarding how this issue came to be proposed - IMO both sides need a crack along side the head.

I often disagree with HSUS, but creating a board to set livestock standards specifically to thwart them is foolish. It it were an advisory board with no specific authority other than to make recommendations, I might be more agreeable. Under the proposed change to the Ohio Constitution no one (not the governor, the legislators or the voters) has direct oversight of this 13 member board and that is a bad thing. All of us need to be accountable and a 13 member board with no oversight is a disaster in the making.

I'm not prepared to give up my right to demand humane treatment for animals in this state because the Ohio Farm Bureau and the HSUS got into a p*ssing contest. It's not about HSUS or OFB - it's about the animals - and that's why I'm voting no on issue 2.

Three mom's view of Kayne West. . . .

2009-09-15T10:16:00.006-04:00

I'm a Mom and a Grandmom. Until yesterday, I had never heard of Kayne West. I'm not big on rap and I rarely pay attention to who's who in the current young people's music scene. But Kayne West's interuppting Taylor Swift the other night at the VMA awards is something even I heard about.

Foolish, rude, poor judgement - those descriptions all fit. Intentionally unkind or hurtful? No, I don't think so.

I think a young man who apparently has made a name for making outrageous comments about those big enough to not be hurt, made a foolish mistake. I think his desire to praise Beyonce came without thought that he was being hurtful to Taylor Swift. It was only after he handed the mircophone back to Taylor Swift that the impact of his actions seemed to hit him.

I watched him on Jay Leno last night and he fumbled, he seemed unsure of himself, but he was very clear that what he did was wrong and that he was sorry, and that he is ashamed. He apologized for his actions and said he hopes this will help him to become a better man. And you know what? I believe him. I don't know him from Adam, but I am a Mom and a Grandmom - we are pretty good at recognizing when someone is sincere. I think he is. I hope he reaches out to Taylor Swift personally and apologizes.

She has already shown what a gracious young lady she is, I think she will accept his apology. As my youngest daughter said earlier today - Ms Swift's Mom raised her right. After watching Leno last night, I think Mr. West's Mom did too. Kayne - call her - you'll feel better and so will your mom.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gvR8lFfYdDw

Why Animal Welfare folks are still angry with Vick. . . .

2009-08-15T09:47:00.008-04:00

The Philadelphia Eagles signed Michael Vick. The NFL will give him a second chance to play football. The HSUS, hoping to profit from the vicious, brutal way in which Vick killed the pit bulls in his care has worked out a supporting role in Vick's "rehabilitation." HSUS would be the same group that solicited funds on behalf of the remaining dogs while demanding they all be killed. Of course HSUS will advocate on behalf of Vick. They understand the general public donates money to them because they think those funds are actually going to help dogs in their local humane societies. HSUS knows it doesn't matter if the publicity is good or bad - the more times their name is in the paper or reported on the news the more dollars flow to their bank account.

I'd guess the Eagles feel pretty much the same. There have been hundreds of news reports regarding their signing Michael Vick, lots of free publicity and they are probably holding to the belief that the general public will forgive Michael Vick once he scores a touchdown or two. Sadly, they may be right but I hope that the ticket sales for the Eagles plummet. I hope that football fans decide a man who tortures animals and shows no remorse is not a fit role model for them or their children.

Vick served 18 months in a federal penitentiary, he feels he paid his debt to society. He said: "For the life of me I can't understand why I was involved in such a pointless activity. Why did I risk so much at the pinnacle of my career?" He went on to state, "There was a point in my life where I felt it was wrong and I knew it was wrong. To this day I live with the shame and the embarrassment." In response to a question about those who are angry and not ready to forgive him, he said: "I understand to a certain degree, but our country is a country of second chances. I paid my debt to society, I spent two years in prison. That was a humbling experience. I can't explain how deeply hurt and how sorry I was."

So why, after Vick served time and made these statements, are animal welfare advocates so angry? I can't speak for others, but I can tell you why I am angry.

Every statement Michael Vick makes is about himself, how he was hurt or embarrassed or humbled. He talks about what he lost, what the impact was to him. Me, me, me. When has he acknowledged that he tortured and viciously brutalized the dogs who did not live up to the standards imposed on the dogs he used in dog fights?

This man did more than participate in a dog fighting ring. He tortured and brutalized the losers. He laughed and joked while they suffered horribly by his hand. He participated and enjoyed the torture of dogs that were restrained and couldn't break free to run or to protect themselves. The reason so many of us are so angry and do not believe he is sorry is because he actively chose to torture and brutalize these dogs. He has never acknowledged the horror of what he did. His words always refer back to the impact on his life, the money he lost, the embarrassment he felt, the time he spent in prison, the fact that he believes he is entitled to a second chance. He is sorry he was caught, but is he sorry he tortured helpless, restrained dogs and clearly enjoyed their suffering?

I was raised a good little Catholic girl. I was taught not to judge. I really have tried to forgive Michael Vick. I will keep trying. I will try to get the images of the torture he inflicted on those dogs out of my head. Sadly, it seems to be more difficult for me, who only read the police reports, to forget what Michael Vick did to those dogs than it is for him - the person who committed the atrocities. And make no mistake - that is the crux of the matter - Michael Vick personally and with great relish inflicted atrocities on the dogs in his care. How could he? Perhaps even more important is: Why did he?

Michael Vick is partnering with HSUS, the same group who solicited donations that never went to the survivors of his brutality. Instead they actively promoted killing the remaining Vick dogs. He continues to make bad judgements with regard to animal welfare. Michael Vick and HSUS both see this as an opportunity to line their pockets and increase their bank accounts at the expense of the tortured, brutalized, murdered dogs in his care and that is why animal welfare people are so angry! Once again, the innocent dogs are being exploited. Second chance my *ss!

Michael Vick - In the best of all possible worlds . . .

2009-07-28T09:49:00.001-04:00

I don't like Michael Vick and I abhor the abuse and cruelty he inflicted on the dogs in his care. He fought dogs, he horribly tortured those who did not meet whatever sick standards he and those who participated in the whole mess had for these dogs.

I don't excuse him, I don't think it was right, I don't forgive him. Let's get that clear right up front. I don't care if he gets drummed out of the NFL (although in fairness, I could care less about any sport activity so that also plays a part in my thought process), I don't care if he never touches a football again. I thought it was good and proper that he went to prison and would not have objected to him still being in prison. The man tortured dogs in the most horrible way before they finally died. Inexcusable does not begin to cover it.

I should also mention that I'm none too pleased with the HSUS and PETA who both staunchly wanted all the remaining dogs put down and fought against giving them a chance. That becomes important because in the best of all possible worlds - I think they need to keep out of the remaining controversy of Michael Vick and his infamous treatment of the dogs on his property.

That said, here's what I would like to happen "in the best of all possible worlds." I would like to see Michael Vick get it. I don't think he does yet (but maybe I'm wrong as it is hard for me to be objective.) I would like to see Michael Vick talk to the good ole boys who did not think what he did was so bad and tell them why he was wrong. I would like to hear him say that dog fighting is wrong and why he now believes that. I would like to hear him discuss the torture and abuse he inflicted on the dogs and acknowledge the horror of it, the wrongness of it, the evilness of it. And I want to hear him tell those who still think dog fighting is okay why they are wrong. I want to hear him say - I was wrong.

I understand he went to prison, paid his debt to society, lost his endorsements, is now bankrupt, lost his home & his money & his career. I get that. But he committed a crime and criminals lose or should lose the "high life" lifestyle. Supporters may consider it unfair, I consider it justice.

I'll even buy that in many areas of the country dog fighting is a way of life and people grow up thinking it is acceptable - I'll buy that as an excuse (true or not) for Michael Vick - if he can convince me that he now understands the horror of what he did. And if he really gets it, then I want him to use his voice and whatever influence he has with the red-necks and other good ole boys to educate them. They won't listen to people like us, maybe they will listen to one of their own. But he can only get through to them if he really gets what he did. I don't want to hear content prepared by a speech writer or PR person or marketing representative.

I want to hear Michael Vick stand up and say: "I was so terribly wrong and I am so sorry. Regardless of what my future brings, I will work to end dog fighting, animal abuse, animal cruelty and testify at legislative hearings detailing how low mankind can go and why we need laws to protect the animals. I can't undo the harm I did to the dogs in my care but I will work to prevent it from happening to other dogs."

And if he actually does that, if he actually shows that he gets it, and he actively does what he can to protect other dogs from people like him (or how he says he used to be) - then and only then will I believe he is entitled to another chance to play football or whatever he wants to do in the public eye. I don't begrudge him making a living, I begrudge the lives lost because of his cruelty. Michael Vick gets a second chance - the dogs he tortured, mutilated and killed died horrible deaths. While that can't be undone - in the best of all possible worlds, who better than Michael Vick to tell the story and champion the dogs still held prisoner as fighting dogs through out the country?

A Tale of Two Graduations. . . .

2009-06-10T13:34:00.002-04:00

We attended two graduations in the past few weeks. One with over 200 students graduating high school, the other with 29 students receiving their GED. Both were attended by family, friends, and well wishers. Both were composed of graduates glad to be through with the requirements and relieved at completing this part of their life's journey, graduates in both wore caps, gowns and huge smiles.

Students at both ceremonies had faced adversity. Some came from a homeless environment, some fought drugs and alcohol - either themselves or dealt with it in their families, some struggled to comprehend the material they needed to master, others breezed through barely cracking a book. Some were financially comfortable, others barely had food on the table. Most of us really don't know what goes on behind closed doors.

Speakers at both ceremonies spoke of the future, the possibilities, they tasked the graduates with going forward and finding their dreams. One ceremony included the class valedictorians giving short speeches, the other gave each student a few minutes to speak. Each, in their own way, recognized the hard work, the effort, the desire, by the graduates to reach this milestone.

Was one ceremony better than the other? No, they were both a celebration of the graduates, a recognition of their accomplishments, an affirmation that by hard work and perseverence, success was obtainable. We enjoyed both ceremonies, celebrated the accomplishments of the graduates and wish only the best for all of the graduates.

The ceremony that touched my heart the most, was the Godman Guild GED graduation. As each graduate was called to receive their diploma, a few words were spoken about each person - then the graduate made a few comments. Each of these folks, for one reason or another, had dropped out of high school and did not graduate with their class. Some had no choice - their home life did not permit them to continue with school, some simply did not fit into the academic environment, some did not think school was important when they were teens - the reasons vary but the end result was the same, they all became high school drop outs. The class of 2009 beat the odds, they went from drop outs to graduates. One of the graduates said "I'm so proud of myself today." I didn't know her, but I too am proud of her accomplishment. So was everyone who attended. Watching all of these young people bask in well deserved success was a pleasure.

The 2009 graduates at both ceremonies have a right to be proud, they all set a goal to graduate and they all succeeded. Congratulations!

The Obama's Puppy. . . .

2009-04-12T07:58:00.005-04:00

I rescue dogs. I prefer to work with puppy mill dogs, but I'll help any that I can. Sometimes I transport from one place to another. Sometimes I foster until a forever home can be found. Sometimes I hold a dog until a rescue can be located to help it. Most times I am genuinely proud of the rescue community. They do amazing, loving, essential work. Overall, rescue people are good people. But every now and again, I am saddened by behavior in the community.

The announcement this week regarding the "First Dog" is one of those occassions. The Obama family did everything right, they researched the breeds that were considered least likely to create problems for a daughter with allergies, they checked shelters and rescues, they talked to owners of the breed, and they accepted a puppy as a gift from Senator Kennedy when the puppy was returned to the breeder.

Yes, it is a purebreed and no, they did not adopt from a shelter. This is a nice family who have added a rambunctious dog to their family and their active lifestyle. A local shelter received a donation from the Obama's and the public will get to watch the trials and tribulations as the family works with a trainer so they all learn to help Bo be the dog he is meant to be. The discussions that have occurred about adopting from shelters or rescues will help lead the public to adopt dogs from these havens. Watching the exploits of Bo and the first family will help others learn to be responsible pet owners.

Like most in rescue, I would have loved to see the Obama's adopt a dog from a shelter or a rescue group. It would have sent a strong message to the public. As sometimes happens, what we want and what we get are not always the same. It's time for rescue to get over their snit.

It seems counter productive to speculate on what the Obama's "should have done." The First Dog is here, he's adorable and clearly going to be a handful. I look forward to watching the adventures of Bo and the Obama family. From watching Bo's introduction yesterday, it looks like it's going to be a fun year! Welcome home Bo!

When it's too cold to go to the Gazebo. . .

2009-02-21T10:56:00.005-05:00

The View From the Gazebo is pretty darn cold today, snow is expected over the weekend. Yuk! Nevertheless, life is good. As you can see from the video, the SR's are happy and enjoying life. Wouldn't it be great if all dogs everywhere were as safe and happy as this crew?

A Tempest in a Teapot

2009-02-03T07:45:00.006-05:00

President Obama's new blackberry type phone has the public tittering. The announcement that a small group of senior staff and personal friends would have access to the President's email & phone resulted in status seekers whining they should be included on the list. Some disgruntled Americans are accusing the President of deception - using the device to bypass the FOIA. Others are concerned about the President's safety, the possibility of a security breach, hackers gaining access to classified information.

Is everyone forgetting this is the man who, prior to becoming President, has always used a blackberry? Was his phone compromised when he was a senator and had less security? Do you really think the President is going to send and receive messages that would compromise national security?

Our 44th President has a better understanding of technology than his predecessors and agreed to compromises recommended by the Secret Service and National Security Agency. He wants to stay in touch with personal friends and a few select members of his senior staff. The public is making too big a deal out of this. It has become a tempest in a teapot!

Those who are concerned about the GPS capabilities of the phone should consider that the President and their family members have been tracked via similar technology for years. This is nothing new. The FOIA concerns have been dealt with, all Presidential communications will be preserved, all personal communications will be exempt - exactly the way all other communications are treated.

What surprises me the most is why this is such an issue. Is it a result of the news media making it into a story? Is it the result of segments of our society that just want to fuss and complain? Or maybe it's because the country is in turmoil at the moment. Every day brings news of additional lay-offs, the stock market has not recovered, personal and government debt is high, the war in Iraq and the safety of our soldiers is a national concern, thousands of Americans have no health insurance - the list goes on. The offered solutions are complex, debated and argued and no single plan seems optimum.

Most of us don't have a solution to the global economic crisis or how to put our people back to work or the key to stabilizing the economy. We may have opinions on the problems facing our nation, but answers, solutions - not so much.

Should the President use a secure blackberry type device? The answer is a straight forward yes or no. Maybe that's the draw. . . . finally an answer the American people can understand.

Hope and change - the lesson of the Mill Dogs. . .

2009-01-18T16:22:00.005-05:00

It's cold in Ohio, several inches of snow and freezing temperatures are enough to keep us inside. No Gazebo today but the view is pretty good on the inside. We've been watching the events leading up to the Inauguration on TV and are warmed by the message and feeling of Unity and Hope. Change is in the air and it is a good feeling.

Mason & I were chatting - mill dogs make the best listeners - and we think this administration has a lot of challenges ahead but we believe with hard work and the support of the American people solutions will be found. We don't think it will happen in a month or even a year. Turning the economy around, ending a war, providing health care for all Americans, re-establishing America's role as a global leader - all of these will take time, sacrifice and hard work from all of us.

Those of us who work with mill dogs are used to this - we have learned the lessons of the mill dogs. They have taught us that regardless of how bad the conditions are, how sick or injured or afraid they are, with time, patience, hard work and hope, they will turn around. They teach us that progess may seem slow, that sometimes a step forward is followed by two steps back. They teach us what it means to persist, to believe, to accept what is now but to hope for what can be. They teach us that progress comes slowly, sometimes in very small steps sometimes it seems like nothing is happening, but then the hard work, patience, and sacrifice pays off. One day we see a step forward and then another and another and before you know it - a mill dog is rehabilitated. We take these dogs in because we want to give them hope and a better life. In the process they teach us to be better people, more patient, more understanding, more forgiving.

Over the next few years, I hope we all remember the lesson of the mill dogs. They learn to trust, to forgive, to love and they become the best they can be. Mason said he wishes the same for our citizens.

Ohio Dogs Lose Again. . .

2008-12-13T07:29:00.004-05:00

The dogs and I went outside to the gazebo this chilly, December morning. It's 16 degrees outside right now. There's a slight wind that freezes my ears and burns my gloveless fingers. I'm wearing a coat and I'm cold. I am very grateful that I have a warm home to escape the cold, food to eat, access to running water, electricity, I am blessed and I know it.

I love dogs, I have a houseful. They are warm, they have food to eat and fresh water to drink. They are comfortable, loved and blessed. Yet, I can't stop thinking about the dogs living in the 11,000 licensed kennels in Ohio - and those living in unlicensed kennels totally off the radar. How many are in unheated buildings? How many are outside with little or no protection? It's 16 degrees outside, how do they stand the cold? How do they endure the pain of the cold chilling their bones, the pain of paws on frozen ground, the pain of cold feet on cold wire? How do they survive when their water dishes are empty or frozen solid?

How could the Republican Caucus in the Ohio House of Representatives condemn these dogs to another Ohio winter with no relief from this horror? How can Representative Daniels, the Chair of the State Government Committee justify his repeated refusal to send HB 223 to the floor for a vote?

How is it that we permit the abuse and torture (and that's exactly what it is) that occurs in commercial kennels in Ohio? How is it that we allow unlicensed kennels to slip under the radar? Why do we allow breeders to argue that humane treatment of the dogs in Ohio kennels will impose a financial hardship on them? If they can not raise dogs humanely, why should they be permitted to stay in business? If it is too costly to provide a humane environment, to offer a nutritious diet and clean, fresh water, they should not be permitted to raise dogs.

If breeders in Ohio wish to raise and sell dogs in this state, they must execise and socialize their dogs. They must innoculate litters, vaccinate the adults, keep rats out of kennels, seek proper veterinary care for an injured or sick dog, protect them from fleas, ticks, parasites. They must keep proper records and ensure that breeding stock with congenital defects are humanely removed from their lines - give them to a rescue or shelter - humanely put them down - but stop breeding them and stop selling the puppies to unsuspecting consumers through out the country. If it is not possible to keep the urine and feces removed from the kennels, then they must hire staff to do it or reduce the number of dogs they have. This is not debateable - care for the dogs humanely or get out of the business. Period.

At one of the hearings held on HB 223 and SB 173, Ervin Raber, a Holmes county breeder and an opponent of regulations for commercial kennels stated that in 2007 he spent almost $3000 in vet care for his 150 dogs. I have far fewer dogs and spent more than twice that amount during the same year. If you own a dog or cat, how much were your vet bills last year? Was your vet able to provide an annual exam, vaccinations, a rabies vax, possibly a dental, for less than $20? That's what Mr. Raber proudly announced he spent on his dogs. Less than $3000 divided by 150 dogs is less than $20 per dog. Ask your vet if that is a sufficient investment in a healthy dog used as breeding stock.

All of our dogs are rescues, one was abandoned outside a vet's office in the middle of a very cold night; two came from homes where the owner passed away and the dogs lost had no where to go; 7 are puppy mill survivors, they come from Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Missouri.

Ohio is not alone in their silent consent to abuse, torture, neglect and profit from the misery of dogs raised in sub-standard kennels. Our record is shameful, our legislators permit the existence of some of the worse kennels in the United States. The Republican Caucus and the State Government Committee should hang their collective heads in shame.

They know what goes on in many of the kennels in Ohio, they heard testimony from Animal Control officers, Humane Officers, rescue groups, veterinarians, shelter personnel, breeders who support regulations, and the public. They saw videos of conditions in sub-standard kennels and heard the reasons why existing laws are often not sufficient to take action. They heard testimony regarding the lack of staff, resources, internal politics, local and county concerns that hampered the attempts of dedicated men and women to ensure humane treatment of dogs in commercial kennels throughout Ohio. They heard testimony on why there is a need for a state agency to oversee the unregulated commercial kennels in Ohio. They know the problems, they know the need.

Testimony was given by breeders indicating these dogs don't know any other life, they don't need exercise or larger cages, they are happy with their lot. After all, they are just dogs.

Of course they are just dogs. They aren't human, they don't vote, they don't pay taxes, they don't talk. But I vote, I pay taxes , I can speak. And I rescue. I want you to know that the Republican Caucus, Representative Daniels, and the State Government Committee are supporting and permitting sub-standard kennels by refusing to send HB 223 to the floor for a vote.

They knowlingly condemned these dogs to suffer unspeakable horrors. Many dogs have untreated ear infections that can destroy their ear canals, once in rescue it take months of treatment and hundreds of dollars to clear the infections. When was the last time you had an ear ache? Did you have ear drops and a warm pad to help ease the pain? These dogs have nothing.

Years of poor nutrition, poor breeding practices, poor veterinary care have left many with rotting, abcessed teeth. A number of dogs come into rescue with jaw bones destroyed by the abcesses and infections eating away at their bones. When was the last time you had a toothache? Were you able to go to a dentist? Take an aspirin or pain killer? Even gargle a bit of warm salt water? These dogs have nothing but unending pain.

As the pain increases, they are unable to eat the little food they have, further weakening them. They are easily hurt, injured, attacked by the stronger dogs. Dawin's theory of "survival of the fittest" is played out every day in the sub-standard kennels in Ohio.

It is important that you understand the Republican Caucus and Representative Daniels know this. The members of the State Government Committee know this. They heard testimony, saw videos, viewed photos of dogs that come out of the unregulated kennels in Ohio. They saw piles of feces and dogs matted so badly they could not move. They know. They don't care. They condemned these dogs to more of the same. They chose not to allow HB 223 to go to the floor for a vote. Their silence equals consent.

You can be sure that at least one dog died alone in a kennel last night. It was cold, hungry, too weak to endure. What does it matter? It was, after all, just a dog.