Brother, Can You Spare A Home?

Another symptom of economic hard times is the sudden overflow of surrendered pets in animal shelters. Sadly, when it comes time to choose between paying bills and feeding Fido, necessity forces the family pet out. And the pets in the shelters are the lucky ones...many more end up abandoned when the family leaves their foreclosed home or just to fend for themselves, wandering the streets. Believe it or not, there are some "misguided" (I'm being kind here, I'm really thinking, "stupid") pet owners who believe that dogs are wild animals who, if dumped "in the country," will be able to catch their own food and survive on their own. In truth, humane euthenasia is a better option if there's absolutely no other choice. Domesticated animals are no closer to their wild ancestors than we are to apes (restrained comment). Most dogs/cats die horribly from dehydration, starvation, infestation and exposure when left in the "country." Unfortunately, animal shelters are overwhelmed, and people are giving less donations as well. Please consider donating to your local shelter or visit the Humane Society or ASPCA website to give what you can. Better yet, consider adoption -- even Oprah adopted a puppy recently from a shelter. And even though the Obamas have already chosen a Portuguese Water Hound, you can still sign a petition urging President Obama to consider a shelter puppy for his family...yes, you can! Sam and I thank you for helping!