MONSTERS & BOOGEY MEN WERE ANIMAL LOVERS TOO!

Pictured: top)Boris Karloff and friend,
(middle)Bela Lugosi with his four legged companions.
, and (below) Lon Chaney Jr and Moose consult each other on the script for "The Wolf Man" from Universal Pictures in 1941.

I have always been a rabid fan of the old Universal Monster Movies: Dracula, Frankenstein, the Wolf Man and the rest of the bunch. But without actors to play the parts, these movies would have never obtained their following and become the classic images we still celebrate today. That's why Bela Lugosi, Boris Karloff, and Lon Chaney Jr are still major stars to horror movie fans world wide.

But even though these three stars made their living scaring the daylights out of several generations of movie goers (and later television audiences), many people don't know that these three men were nothing like their on screen Bogey men persona's, and were very avid animal lovers.
Bela Lugosi is said to have ALWAYS had dogs--and was quite taken with larger breeds, great Danes in particular.
Boris Karloff owned a home in the Hollywood hills, which was inhabited by not only dogs, but farm animals as well. He even had a 400 pound  pet pig named Elsie.
Lon Chaney Jr was a giant of a man, with a giant heart as well. HeI admire him especially, as he was a lover of strays. In the early 40's, there was a huge wolf/German shepherd looking dog who was wondering the lot at Universal Studios. Lon rescued the dog, named him Moose, and they became a well known pair at the studio. Moose even became a slight horror star himself---he is the "wolf" that attacks Mr. Chaney's "Larry Talbot" and gives him the bite that makes him The Wolf Man in the 1941 movie. Moose also played bit parts in the Mummy movies that Mr. Chaney starred in later.
Though many folks shiver at the sight of these three cinema greats, when you get down to it, they were wonderful men with sweet spirits, and that special place in their hearts that allowed canines to find an oasis where the horrors of abandonment, starvation, and homelessness would not touch their lives.
It just goes to show you, that no book can be judged by it's cover.
Happy Halloween Everybody!!!!!!!!!!

SAVE LIVES BY ADOPTING OR FOSTERING FROM ANIMAL CONTROL

Clarksville has an abundance of dogs and cats.

Some are blessed with a home. Some have no idea what that means.
There are those with sufficient food and water, a warm blanket to sleep on, perhaps a doghouse in the backyard, or some other place to call their own.
Others wander aimlessly thru the streets and alleyways, down busy roadsides, digging through trash and debris to find the scraps of human discard as nourishment.
Many are in good health, and have someone to maintain that status and assure a long and fruitful life.
Too many are sick, malnourished, broken and maimed, to the point that every breath is agony.
The blessed have someone to love them, and be their human. They have someone to give them a name and a purpose.
The lost would give anything to know even a tiny bit of that happiness. They have no idea what they are doing here. All they know is that they were born and discarded into a life where every moment is a fight to survive.
Citizens take pity on these lost souls. They show kindness in the form of food or water or a friendly pat on the head. Some of these good Samaritans will go the distance and step up to help find these battered souls a good home.
Our local shelters fight everyday to stem the tide and lower the number of indigent animals. But it’s a war that is overwhelming. Only small battles are won, and complete victory is currently out of grasp.
Most of these homeless and helpless spirits, when caught, wind up at Animal Control.
This is the first time many of them will be sheltered from the elements, have a regular supply of food, drink clean water, and have someone talk to them or offer a gentle touch.
But it is also the last place many of them see.
Through Animal Control’s partnership with groups like the Humane Society of Clarksville-Montgomery Co.,and the Montgomery County Friends of the Shelter, volunteers photograph the adoptable pets and place them on petfinder.com in hopes that people will adopt them. Each week, the page fills with beautiful fuzzy faces with one thing in common: they want to be loved.
Thankfully, many of these precious spirits get adopted, finding that final destination in someone’s heart and home.
But due to circumstances of space, finances, and the tendency of humans to overlook pound animals, not all are promised their happy ending.
People see the photos, fall completely in love with an image, but perhaps opt to not follow through.
So, a small dedicated heart waits to beat for that special human it longs for. But the human never comes, time runs out, and that tiny, fragile heartbeat is silenced forever.
Their last thought: Why didn’t you come?
If you, or someone you know is considering the addition of a pet, look at the adoptable animals available at Montgomery County Animal Control & Adoption Service.
If you are not ready to commit your heart or home full time to an animal—consider a short term foster. Through fostering, YOU become the lifeboat to an animal who is swimming for it’s life in a sea of despair. These poor creatures can only swim so long before they sink into the abyss , and become yet another statistic.
You can foster from Animal Control thru FRIENDS OF THE SHELTER, or the Humane Society. Reach them at MCFOTS@gmail.com or by calling the HS at 931-648-8042.
If you can help in any way—please do.

DO SOMETHING FOR YOUR LOCAL SHELTERS

Back in the 90’s, an actor named Andrew Shue , used his fame to start an organization for kids called “Do Something”, to encourage them to get out of their living rooms and become active to make the world a better place.


Pet people can use this same idea to promote volunteerism and support for our local shelters: DO SOMETHING—something for the animals.

It’s easy as pie! There are tons of EASY things you can do for our local non-kill shelters that will help a lot!

Can you collect aluminum cans? If you can, then you get to do a double whammy! You can help recycle to help the environment, and make the can money your monthly donation to your favorite animal cause.

Can you knit, crochet or sew? You can make an afghan or a quilt and donate it as a silent auction item that a shelter can put up for bid at a fundraiser. You can sew blankets for the kennels at Animal Control, or for the cats and dogs at Cats Are Us. Hand made things usually last longer than store bought, and the money your item(if used for auction or yard sale) brings can help save the life of an animal.

Know anything about photography? Many of the shelters would love to have someone to take photos at their events or take animal photos that can be posted on their adoption pages.

Do you love to drive? Do you like to travel? You could volunteer your services as a chauffeur to take sick animals to vet appointments, or deliver animals to adoption day. If you are into long scenic drives, you can help an animal to its new home by driving part of a transport route.

Do you know anything about carpentry, landscaping or general repair? Has it been your lifelong dream to be known as Mr. or Mrs. Fix-it? There are plenty of odd repair jobs available at our local shelters. Some repairs are very simple and some a little more challenging, but none the less, they need doing. You could help animals by using your skills to keep roofs from leaking, unclog pipes, or just mowing grass.

Do you have a civic group, fraternity, sorority, or any other kind of club that is searching for a philanthropic cause to donate your time too? Hold a yard sale, a bake sale, or some other event and donate your proceeds to your favorite animal cause. Collect pet food, cat litter, cleaning supplies, and other much needed items and donate them to one of the shelters.

Every no kill shelter in our area survives from public donation and volunteer labor. There’s no way for you to go wrong if you just DO SOMETHING.

All it takes is to put on your thinking cap, organize your friends, and get started.

Together, as citizens that truly care for the animals and their welfare, we can accomplish anything.

BUDDY RABBIT ADOPTED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Pictured Top: HANK (AKA Buddy Rabbit) as he is today--all grown up

As most of you know, Dogwood was a foster home for the Humane Society, Cats Are Us, and the Montgomery County Friends of the Shelter. My last foster, Buddy Rabbit, was rescued from Animal Control thru "Friends" and stayed with us thru the month of June 2011.
He was supposed to go by transport, but a horrible case of kennel cough knocked that idea in the head. By the time he healed up and was ready for a forever home, Buddy Rabbit was taken to an adoption event where a little boy fell in love with him and he was adopted the very same day.
BUTTTTTTT, the family moved about a month later, and they decided not to take Buddy Rabbit with them. So he came back to "Friends". Though I was not happy when I got the news, I was overjoyed that at least the family didn't dump him at the pound and surrendered him back to the rescue as the adoption agreement states.
So Buddy Rabbit (who was back to his original "Friends" name of record: HANK) spent a little time with the rescue before he was adopted again.
BUUUUTTTTTTT, the poor mother of the family he entered was soon diagnosed with MS, forcing the family to do a re-think. It was very sad, as they truly loved Buddy Rabbit. But a serious illness in a family does not leave much time for an active ten month old pup. So, Buddy Rabbit packed his bags and now reside back with Montgomery County Friends of the Shelter at their Kraft Street facility.
I commend this rescue for one: keeping an eye on it's adopted animals and two: being gracious enough to keep me (the former foster Daddy and complete worry wart) in the loop on Buddy Rabbit AKA HANK's progress.
Buddy Rabbit is one of the sweetest animals in the world, and he deserves a break!!!!!!!!
We saved him from death at Animal Control, and he's had a foster home, and TWO failed adoptions. THIS IS NO FAULT OF BUDDY RABBITS. This is just CRAPPY LUCK!!
BUT--the luck finally changed yesterday when a adopter drove all the way down from Kentucky to meet the Buddy Rabbit. She didn't go home empty handed.
BUDDY RABBIT WAS ADOPTED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (pee pee -happy dance)
He has waited very patiently for his place in the world to open up and I pray that this is finally it.
Though we LOVED him at Dogwood, four is our limit. I have prayed and prayed over this, asking God to either find my little Buddy Rabbit a good home, or help me find a way to adopt him myself without turnig our already fragile world upside down. It's been a hard wait, but I knew God would ot let either of us down. If I had gotten cocky and ran over to Clarksville and got him , I probably would have caused problems that would have not only made Buddy Rabbit unhappy--but the rest of my four legged felons as well. Besides that, Better Half would put me out permanently.
As he was once my foster child, and he owns a piece of our heart, I am so glad that he appears to have found a LOVING, CARING, SAFE home.
I ask that you please say a prayer for Buddy Rabbit (HANK), that this home will be what we wanted theother two he previous visited to be: a FOREVER home. I believe with all my heart that this little guy has a HUGE mission in his life, and that he is just getting started.
My undying thanks and gratitude to Friends of the Shelter for their dedication, their loyalty, and for their kindness in keeping me informed about our former fur child.
God Speed Buddy Rabbit--I love you!!!!!!
B

FOSTER HOMES SAVE LIVES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

PICTURED: Sadie (Left)--the first Dogwood foster child and Daisy (middle) the crazy girl who I couldn't let go of. Bottom: The Buddy Rabbit (HANK), my last Clarksville foster. Linus (really bottom) my current foster in Waverly TN.

I had never fostered an animal before.

The thought of “renting” an animal didn’t appeal to me. How could you take one home and not fall in love with it?
Of course, I had thoughts of the expense, the extra set of paws, and the potential damage to the house. I decided it wasn’t for me.
Then came Sadie.
Sadie, 5 year old Border collie, was at Animal Control facing the end of her road. God really rode my heart over the waste of a fully trained, house broken, gentle spirited dog being put to sleep.
Final Score: GOD: One
Brett: Zero
Before I knew it, Sadie was sitting on my bed while the Dogwood pack looked at me as if to say, “What have you done?”
I wasn’t crazy about the idea of fostering, but I couldn’t stand by and let that dog die. I just kept telling myself that she wasn’t mine to keep.
Sadie stayed for 30 days before she found the perfect home. There was no reason to weep. She was alive, and happy. I had done my part.
I finally realized what fostering is about: Preserving life.
It’s about giving an animal that extra time to find their place in the world and that person who needs them.
As a foster family, you become their bridge from hopelessness to happiness.
You’re helping them cross over from a place of no future, to one where they will flourish and never look back.
That’s what it’s about –saving and extending life---giving each one the chance to fill someone’s heart with love. It’s what they were meant for.
I know people tell me, “I don’t want another animal” or “I can’t afford it.”
Most foster programs pay all vet expenses while you provide the home, food, and amenities. Shelters will even help with some cost just to save the animal.
I hear that familiar “I could never let them go.”
I understand that feeling.
You can save them, and suffer a little heart break, or stay away and allow them to be euthanized?
Brass Tacks: Your heartache will ease, but their elimination is forever.
Every shelter in town has a foster program that you can join up with. Once you are a foster family, you won’t have to wait long before a new paw will be knocking on your front door.
Will it be perfect? Uh…no.
Daisy,  the second foster who we later adopted , chewed up shoes, peed on the carpet, howled in the middle of the night, etc.
Did I become frustrated? Sure.
Was she a pain in the butt sometimes? OH YEAH!
Did I stop loving her? Anyone who has ever looked into that sweet face knows the answer to that.
Daisy became a permanent Dogwood mutt because I just couldn't stand the thought of her calling someone else  Daddy.
The third foster, Buddy Rabbit, stayed with us for 30 days before being adopted. Though I loved him dearly, I could not keep him as I had Daisy. Buddy Rabbit went thru two homes so far--not by any fault of his own--but because the families that adopted him had life changing events come about that made them surrender him back to the Montgomery County Friends of the Shelter. Buddy Rabbit (called HANK now)  finally went to a TRUE FOREVER home. He is loved, spoiled, and having the time of his life
NOW--we have little LINUS as a foster. Only time will tell, but I know that SOMEONE will fall in love with him and WANT HIM FOR THEIR VERY OWN!!!
Look folks, the bottom line the FOSTERING is this: if I can do it—Lord knows ANYBODY can foster a dog or cat.
I urge you to get involved with the fostering programs sponsored by the local shelters. Contact them for info on their programs today because they need you now.
Anyone who would like to meet, foster, or ADOPT --contact your local shelters!!!
In WAVERLY TN--contact the shelter at 931-296-7319
In Clarksville--dial up the Humane Society at 931-648-8042
They can also put you in touch with  Montgomery County Friends of the Shelter  and other groups who need foster homes!!
The clock is ticking---and in pounds all around the country--each of those seconds that passes is marked by the last breath of an animal being put to sleep. YOU CAN STOP IT! But you have to ACT.
Please consider fostering animals from your local animal controls.

GOD DOES IT AGAIN!!! JOEY'S FUND ESTABLISHED THRU COMMUNITY ABILITY TO "STEP OUT ON FAITH"

All I can say --is AIN'T GOD GOOD????????
I'm going to link the wonderful article that appeared in the Leaf Chronicle on Saturday Oct 22 concerning JOEY, his condition, and the FACT THAT THE COMMUNITY has "stepped out on faith" once again to help pay for the surgery on a little dogs legs.
I AM SO PROUD of the LEAF CHRONICLE for covering this story NOT ONLY ONCE--BUT EVEN TWICE!!!!! 
THERE WAS EVEN LEFT OVERS from the donated funds!!!!!!!
Per the article:
"So far, Animal Control and Animal Hospital have raised more than $2,300 toward Joey's surgery. It only cost $1,800 to fix his broken legs, but Josephson said she has set up a "Joey Fund" to provide for his ongoing care and the care of other dogs who are afflicted with abuse.


Those interested in donating can mail a check or cash to Montgomery County Animal Control at 616 North Spring Street and indicate the money should go toward the Joey Fund.

Those willing to pay with credit or debit cards can call Animal Hospital and pay on Joey's bill directly."


  JOEY'S FUND will be used to help other animals in need who come thru the ANIMAL CONTROL. As a county funded agency, the pound cannot expend monies to animals who are hurt, sick, or suffer abuse--even if they can be saved. THIS FUND will help give those poor creatures a CHANCE to LIVE!!!!
Honestly---I stand in AWE of what is fast becoming an ARMY of people who have decided to STAND UP, STEP OUT, AND GET INVOLVED in the over population,stray, abandoned, harmed AND ABUSED animal problem that Montgomery County has been wallowing in over the past several years. FINALLY--people are starting to take a different look at these innocents, and DO SOMETHING!
I'm not going to preach--just say , THANK YOU GOD, and tell you that if you haven't considered donating your TIME, your PRAYERS, or from your WALLET--PLEASE, consider doing one of the three~!
The LEAF CHRONICLE article is linked here. http://www.theleafchronicle.com/article/20111023/NEWS01/110230321/-Joey-terrier-will-available-adoption-after-recovery

ANOTHER BABY IN NEED: HELP SAVE JOEY!!!!!!

I want you to see the face of abuse. It's in the picture above.

JOEY came to the pound with BOTH FRONT LEGS BROKEN!
As he is at Animal Control, they are not funded for such care or emergency procedures. SO IT'S UP TO US!  

 WE NEED TO HELP JOEY!!  by raising $1600 dollars to operate on his little legs.

Dr. Howard at ANIMAL HOSPITAL at

(931) 647-1696
11 Mcclure St
Clarksville, TN 37040

has agreed to do the surgery.
The final total may be more--it depends on how JOEY responds.
JOEY has a chance at a good life. He will get his surgery--and then HE HAS A FOSTER who has stepped up to take care of him AFTERWARD--But he needs help NOW!

I know we just got together to raise money for little GUNTHER who was shot and suffered a severed urethra and required expensive surgery(Doing fine by the way at last report!)--but anyone who deals with animals knows that this is a NEVER ENDING battle.

If you have it to give--PLEASE do so.  Give up your cigarettes today or don't have that cheese burger for lunch--donate at least 5 dollars to help give this little guy that chance to run and play again.
If nothing else--whisper a prayer that this need will be met and that JOEY will WALK AGAIN.
If you can make a donation, when you do so--cover it with a prayer that God will help multiply it into the amount needed for JOEY's operation and recovery.


PLEASE DONATE TO ANIMAL HOSPITAL IN CLARKSVILLE TN by calling 931-647-1696 TODAY!
I called the vet office myself and made sure they will take donation via phone and credit card (you can mail a check too--just make sure it is notated FOR JOEY).
They don't accept American Express (just to be clear on whats taken)
You can also send a check to  ANIMAL CONTROL in CLARKSVILLE TN 
Montgomery County Animal Control 616 N. Spring Street Clarksville, TN 37040
Per Director Karen Josephson,
" If they (citizens who donate)mail checks , they should be made out to Animal Control ATTEN: JOEY... this way the donation can be tax deductible"



IT DOESN'T GET DONE UNLESS WE DO IT TOGETHER!!! Please help in any way possible.

DOES ANYONE HAVE ROOM FOR A BUDDY RABBIT ??????

Pictured Top: HANK (AKA Buddy Rabbit) as he is today--all grown up
Pictured Bottom: Buddy Rabbit at Dogwood as a foster June 2011

As most of you know, Dogwood was a foster home for the Humane Society, Cats Are Us, and the Montgomery County Friends of the Shelter. My last foster, Buddy Rabbit, was rescued from Animal Control thru "Friends" and stayed with us thru the month of June 2011.
He was supposed to go by transport, but a horrible case of kennel cough knocked that idea in the head. By the time he healed up and was ready for a forever home, Buddy Rabbit was taken to an adoption event where a little boy fell in love with him and he was adopted the very same day.
BUTTTTTTT, the family moved about a month later, and they decided not to take Buddy Rabbit with them. So he came back to "Friends". Though I was not happy when I got the news, I was overjoyed that at least the family didn't dump him at the pound and surrendered him back to the rescue as the adoption agreement states.
So Buddy Rabbit (who was back to his original "Friends" name of record: HANK) spent a little time with the rescue before he was adopted again.
BUUUUTTTTTTT, the poor mother of the family he entered was soon diagnosed with MS, forcing the family to do a re-think. It was very sad, as they truly loved Buddy Rabbit. But a serious illness in a family does not leave much time for an active ten month old pup. So, Buddy Rabbit packed his bags and now reside back with Montgomery County Friends of the Shelter at their Kraft Street facility.
I commend this rescue for one: keeping an eye on it's adopted animals and two: being gracious enough to keep me (the former foster Daddy and complete worry wart) in the loop on Buddy Rabbit AKA HANK's progress.
Buddy Rabbit is one of the sweetest animals in the world, and he deserves a break!!!!!!!!
We saved him from death at Animal Control, and he's had a foster home, and TWO failed adoptions. THIS IS NO FAULT OF BUDDY RABBITS.  This is just CRAPPY LUCK!!
BUT--the luck finally changed yesterday when a adopter drove all the way down from Kentucky to meet the Buddy Rabbit.  She didn't go home empty handed.
BUDDY RABBIT WAS ADOPTED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (pee pee -happy dance)
He has waited very patiently for his place in the world to open up and I pray that this is finally it.
Though we LOVED him at Dogwood, four is our limit. I have prayed and prayed over this, asking God to either find my little Buddy Rabbit a good home, or help me find a way to adopt him myself without turnig our already fragile world upside down. It's been a hard wait, but I knew God would ot let either of us down. If I had gotten cocky and ran over to Clarksville and got him , I probably would have caused problems that would have not only made Buddy Rabbit unhappy--but the rest of my four legged felons as well. Besides that,  Better Half would put me out permanently.
As he was once my foster child, and he owns a piece of our heart, I am so glad that he appears to have found  a LOVING, CARING, SAFE home.
I ask that you please say a prayer for Buddy Rabbit (HANK), that this home will be what we wanted theother two he previous visited to be: a FOREVER home. I believe with all my heart that this little guy has a HUGE mission in his life, and that he is just getting started.
 My undying thanks and gratitude to Friends of the Shelter  for their dedication, their loyalty, and for their kindness in keeping me informed about our former fur child. 
God Speed Buddy Rabbit--I love you!!!!!!
B

HELP GET IT TOGETHER FOR GUNTHER!!!!!!!!!!!

PLEASE HELP THIS POOR LITTLE DOG IN ANY WAY POSSIBLE--THIS POST FROM FACEBOOK AND THE DOVER/STEWART COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY

MEET “GUNTHER.”
Sad news from the rural Stewart County community. A three-month old beagle puppy staggered into a garage last night using his last ounce of strength.
He had sustained a severe gunshot wound, slashed, riddled with bee-bees, and a broken tail.
The bullet severed his urethra and he needs reconstructive surgery to be able to urinate again.
In the past, your generosity has saved the lives of “Naome,” “Angel,” and many others. Once again, your generosity can save the life of this precious little boy who has a strong will to live. Feel free to Cross-Post. And, as always, thank you for your support, love, kindness and generosity.


Your tax-deductible donation can be made in one of the following ways:
1. On-line, using the DONATE & PAY-PAL button at www.HumaneSocietyDover.org
2. Mail-in donation to: Humane Society of Dover, 533 Honey Fork Road, Indian Mound, TN 37079
3. Calling North Stewart Vet Clinic, using your credit or debit card: (931) 232-9900. Tell them it is for "Gunther."
4. Stop by or mail donation to North Stewart Vet Clinic at 1613 Highway 79, Dover, TN 37058. Tell them it is for "Gunther."

PLEASE HELP!  I CHALLENGE ANYONE WHO READS THIS TO DONATE 5 DOLLARS! 
YES! FIVE DOLLARS! 
IF YOU CAN AFFORD MORE THEN GIVE IT IN GOD'S NAME!
IF YOU CANNOT AFFORD TO GIVE--THEN GIVE FROM YOUR KNEES--DONATE FIFTEEN MINUTES OF SOLID STEADFAST PRAYER THAT THIS NEED WILL BE MET AND THIS ANIMAL SAVED FROM THE HORRIBLE MISTREATMENT! 
GUNTHER HAS SUFFERED AT THE HANDS OF A HUMAN WHO WILL ONE DAY STAND  BEFORE HIS MAKER and EXPLAIN  exactly WHY they did THIS !
BUT WE CAN SAVE THIS BABY AND MAKE A MIRACLE HAPPEN WITH ABE LINCOLN IN ONE HAND AND A PRAYER BOOK IN THE OTHER.
JOIN US IN THIS FIGHT TODAY!!!!!!!!!!

UPDATE 10/17/2011: Per a Face Book posting from the Dover/Stewart Cunty Humane Society, Gunther will undergo surgery this morning to repair the effects of the gun shot wound. PLEASE join me in prayer that this little guy will come through with flying colors and that he will be able to lead a happy, normal life.
UPDATE 10/18/2011: per the Dover/Stewart Co Humane Society via Face Book:
 Gunther just got out of surgery. He now has a new pee-pee hole near his testicle area where he will now pee-pee like a girl. Thank you to all the wonderful people who came forward to help with this surgery -- and -- a special Thank You to Dr. Amanda Fant and her staff! Another update & new pics of Gunther coming tomorrow.

NEVER TAKE A BETTER HALF FOR GRANTED

Sometimes, we take people for granted.
A few Saturday’s ago, I was sleeping off a double dose of Nyquil in efforts to get rid of a sinus funk.
Better Half had muttered something about going to the bank and to the carwash. In my warped state of mind, I only heard half of it and went back to sleep.
This was around 9 a.m.
I woke up around one o’clock and began to replay the hazy, dream-like memory when Better Half had left. I thought, "A bank trip and car wash shouldn’t have taken more than an hour at most'.
 But, I  knew there was no cause to  start smacking Better Half’s photo on milk cartons. I had been thru this before, and figured that this was just another occasion where some lucky retailer was enjoying the fruits of a credit card that I would spend the rest of my natural life paying off .
But still--I wanted to know so I called the cell phone. No answer.
Once again, I had nothing to panic about. Anyone on Earth can dial that number and it’s answered. But if I call it, the phone’s owner is suddenly struck deaf, blind, and unable to feel the vibrations it emits.
So, I treated myself to a fresh handkerchief, and clicked on the TV.
More time drifted by. I began to feel the tiny bit of worry slowly infiltrate my mind. Once again, I tried the phone- no answer again.
So, I made my way to the kitchen to find a soda. What I found was Better Half’s phone, lying on the counter, beeping away with my missed phone calls.
Now, I hate to admit this, but I am a 100%, died in the wool, card carrying, worry wart! And it’s only worsened when the situation is ripe for such.
This situation was so ripe it was rotten.
Horrible visions of car wrecks, kidnappings, and drive by shootings went thru my brain and an empty feeling blossomed in my gutt. Dread flooded my heart as I realized how devastating it would be without my soul mate. I have so much around me that I take for granted.
Some folks are couples, but they don’t see each other that much. Though I know there are exceptions to all the rules, some of them prefer it that way. They aren’t really close, they aren’t really attached to each other and, well hell, most aren’t even friends.
That’s not us.
We spend 99.9% of our waking hours together: in the car, at home, with the babies, with friends, or just alone together. Much love and peace comes from our union. I have no life without that other part of me that shares every part of my existence.
What would I do without my Better Half?
It was a question I had no answer for.
Suddenly, the back door opened and the dogs went to welcome the lost sheep back to the fold.
I did what any one else in my situation would have done at that moment: gave Better Half a long hug, and then launched into a lecture about worrying me to half to death and leaving the cell phone at home.
I hate it when I open my mouth and Momma’s voice comes out.

The MORALS of this story:

Always leave a note when you leave loved ones drugged out of their minds.

ALWAYS carry a cell phone (CHARGED) in case someone is frantically trying to contact you and establish the fact you are still amoung the living.

Most importantly: Never take something for granted just because it's always there. You never know what you got ---until you think it might be gone.

A DOGWOOD FAIRY TALE

Last re-tread for the day--I promise!  Another blog, that much later became a column, that became part of the Dogwood legend.

Once upon a time, in a land far, far, on Madison Street, there stood a weather worn palace in the Kingdom known as Dogwood.


At first, two Princes lived in this castle. Their lives were filled with merry making and the drink flowed freely throughout the Kingdom. But this became a boring life for the princes, so it was decided that a princess was needed.

They searched and searched, looking for a princess that would be happy in the Kingdom that they lived in. Time went by, and finally, a young one was brought into the castle to share their lives and the fruits of their labor within the palace.

Princess Lucy was spoiled just like anyone’s first born.

She was the princess, and the Princes brought her food, kept her comfortable, bathed her, and kept the kingdom in order around her. She pioneered the raged frontiers of Dogwood that would, in later years, become the famed kingdom that it is today. Her first year, Princess Lucy was pampered and fussed over by her Princes. She could do no wrong, and even if she did, the punishment was never a severe one.

As time went by, Lucy grew and matured. Soon the Princes decided to lay down their powers to the Princess, as they loved her so much. Within her first year, the princess took her crown, as she began her reign as supreme Queen of Dogwood. With this, the Princes slipped down the royal chain of command to land of serfdom, where they labored to keep her highness happy.

Serfdom wasn’t all that bad. But the serfs saw that the Queen was lonely and that she needed someone else at her side when they were not there.

Enter ten week old Prince Charlie. The Queen was HORRIFIED!

Suddenly there was a young prince in the palace. The hierarchy of things trembled just a tad, but soon settled. The first day Charlie entered the kingdom, Lucy wouldn’t come near him. Charlie was in love at first sight of her, and only wanted to suit her fancy.

But the Queen was not having that.

The royal remnants had already been cut and tied on both the Queen and the young Prince, so there would be no royal romance in the palace. But later, the Queen decided that she would need an heir to the throne, and adopted him as one of her own.

This worked out fine. The Prince was in no way looking for a throne, and he quietly denounced his royal place to Lucy, throne, bone and rubber squeaky toy. She remained the Queen, and eventually, allowed Charlie to lay in her presence, down wind of course.

Another two years passed. The House of L was the ultimate power in the Kingdom of Dogwood. Queen Lucy reigned supreme over a playful prince and two serfs who stood at her beck and call every hour of the day and night.

But one day, a wanderer came into the Kingdom. As in the fairy tales of old, though she was in a poor state upon her arrival, she too was of a royal lineage of a lost throne.

Enter the feline.

Suddenly, it was Queen vs. Queen mother. The moment Pearl the cat set royal paw into Dogwood, you could feel the kingdom cringe. This was another blow to her highness. This creature looked nothing like the prince or herself, and she had no idea what was to become of the throne, the House of L, or the Kingdom of Dogwood.

But as usual, peace remained in the kingdom, and once again, the Queen made a wise choice.

At a royal summit, held not long after Princess Pearl’s arrival, it was decided by the Queen mother that the princess was to also join her court, and have her own lands and castle. There after, the kingdom known as the bedrooms and kitchen were hailed in Queen Lucy’s name, and the lands of the Living and Dining Room were left to the dainty paw of the White princess. They became known as the Feline Fields.

Once again, peace and serenity filled the kingdom. But there would be one last upset to the hierarchy of the kingdom.

Through out History, it is common knowledge that every reigning empire and kingdom must fall at one time or another. As the Aztecs had fallen to the Spanish centuries before---the Camelot like kingdom of Dogwood fell to its own conquistador that came in the form of a little rat terror named HINES.

As any good Queen would, Lucy called all her minions to arms to defend the kingdom. The battle was short. Once again, the Queen ruled in patience and wisdom, making the conquistador a guest of the kingdom. An agreement was made by the royal counsel, to share the lands of the Queen Mother and the Feline Fields with the new arrival.

Before long, the young conqueror became a close confidant, and was granted a royal inclusion in the House of L. It was put forth in a royal decree that all who lived in the Kingdom of Dogwood, no matter what part, should be considered loyal and welcome subjects of the throne. When the parchment came forth, it was given the “mark of approval” by all parties, and the dampened document became law.

The Queen’s reign has always been a prosperous one. The royal treasury was always filled with hugs and wet kisses, the fields were plentiful with cat nip and treats, and the borders were well guarded from enemy invaders.

They are all still living there, enjoying a bountiful, peaceful life under supervision of the Queen, her feline companion, the prince, and the conqueror. When the Queen is happy, the serfs see the look in her majesties face, as if to say “This pleases us.”

From the throne room, resting on her Queen sized throne, she surveys her kingdom and her subjects. The serfs are loved and valued as if they too ran on four legs and paws. They are the Queens protectors, her guard, true loves of her heart. The serfs love the Queen and her court, forever grateful that this Kingdom given them stands an oasis from the barbaric world outside its walls.

In the kingdom of Dogwood, peace and harmony ruled, and the lands of the House of L will continue to flourished and bloom for many, many years to come.

And they all lived happily ever after.

MY DAILY MEDS

Sorry if I am boring you with older material--but I found a folder full of it on my old desk top and I think it's good enuogh for a repeat.

I wrote this a few years ago when I was stressed out of my mind (and then again, when am I not). I can look back on that stressful time in my life and reflect on the stress of NOW and find the humor in it all . God save me! 

Over the past year, it seems like the pack at Dogwood has dealt with every crisis under the sun.

We started out with Hines and his bronchitis back in the spring. This hit him after he had been on the mend with a pulled leg muscle from chasing Charlie around the back yard. (Cha Ching!)
Then Lucy’s allergies kicked in and that was h*ll on wheels to get under control, even with her shots (CHA CHING!)$$$$$
THEN Charlie went thru his foot rash and four trips to the vet for it, (MAJOR CHA CHING!)$$$$$$, only to cure it myself with VICKS SAUVE as I read about its healing powers of rashes in an internet article.
THEN we went thru the terror of thinking he had an intestinal blockage, as he was throwing up and wouldn’t poop. Turned out to be an over acidic stomach and constipation. (Slight Cha Ching!)$$$$
THEN we had to rush him to the after hours clinic (CHA CHING) when we thought he had poked his eye out, which turned out to be cherry eye. But the medicine has worked and the tear duct has not floated back out of his third lid again. No surgery until it happens or becomes a problem (Negative -Cha Ching)-$$$$
NOW, Lucy has another bladder infection and is on medications. She goes back for more blood work and tests this weekend as her “gravity” urine level is way off. She has been mean as a cougar for the past couple of weeks, but I know that she is miserable.
(Oh yeah –BIG CHA CHING)$$$$$
All the pet problems piled up on everything else.
Better Half tried out the portable dishwasher  bought at the shelterYard sale and conveniently washed down the kitchen and broke the spicket to boot. (Cha Ching!)
My job is wearing me out like an old over coat and there is little sign of improving that situation. Gas prices of the past few months have been killing us, and we seem to have more money flying out the window than sets in our wallets. Now there are rumors of being laid off from my job. I did have a job interview with Vanderbilt yesterday, but it seems that it is going to take several weeks before a decision is made on if I even get to be interviewed the second time by the big bosses.
The holidays are flying at us 90 miles an hour and I have as much holiday spirit forging inside me as the Grinch did. Better Half is going to North Dakota for Christmas and that leaves me for a week alone with the dogs. I don’t mind it, except Lucy will do nothing but lay by the back door and cry all week, which drives me insane.
The house is a disaster and if I see another piece of laundry or a dirty dish I am going to go naked and eat over the sink from that point on.
With all this going on in my life, I have times I could scream my head off and run into the street in front of a speeding car!!!
But just when I am ready to jump off that 50 story high rise in my head, I become surrounded by my babies. People who do not have animals will never know the calming and curative effect that they have on your soul.
I can always count on Charlie to lie down beside me and give me his “It’s OK Daddy, I love you.” look from those beautiful brown eyes.
And I always have Hines to back it up, jumping at me like a jack rabbit screaming “Me too, Daddy! Me too! I Love you too!!!”
And then there’s the Lucy dog, my poor little sick girl, who sits beside me like a protecting gargoyle, letting me silently know that she would protect me from the devil himself if need be.
The Pearl cat sits silently pondering, then I suddenly feel the slightest tremor of little feline feet, as I get a nuzzle of white fur on my chin ,assuring me that there are worse things in the world than what is happening to me.
Whatever crisis happens outside our hair covered, cat scratched walls, I can be assured that inside flows a fountain of quiet love, filled with wet kisses, fuzzy nuzzles, and eyes that burn with truest love and faithfulness any human could ever know.
There are five little pills I take every morning.
My brown Charlie pill gives me the knowledge that a gentle, sweet spirit can conquer all.
My black Lucy pill keeps me just a little aggravating, but keeps me willing to work things thru.
My checkered Hines pill---pure caffeine—gives me enough energy to keep me going thru the day.
My white Pearl pill--- that pill is just a little dose of attitude. The kind that says,“I could hurt you if I wanted to—but I don’t want to—so there.”
I carry every lick, every paw print, every scrape, every piece of fur that covers my clothing, as a shield from the slings and arrows of the day. My kids are in my blood. They make up the things that keep life special, and make getting up in the morning more worth while.
May be someday, I will win the lottery and become a poor, bored millionaire, with none of the worries we have now. I can build animal shelters, have a personal vet in my own house, and invest in a future where all fur babies have the chance to give their love to someone who is worn down with life. God knows there are plenty of fuzzies out there who’s hearts ache for that.
And until then, I have enough “medication” to see me thru.
After that:
the bills can be paid,
the job can be worked,
the kitchen will dry out,
the laundry can be washed,
and the dishes…can wait.

DADDY AND THE ONE EYED DOG

This is another tale from several years ago-- --actually the one that started my serious turn at writing. It's a true story--sad--but true.

Daddy was always a rough character. He believed that each thing had its place in God’s scheme of things, and that’s where it should stay. He did not give way to new thinking, nor did he show or participate in emotion. But in his older years, Daddy began to mellow. And even though he talked a mean talk, his heart began to discover things that he either had never experienced, or had simply never practiced before in his life.

Such was the case with the one eyed dog.

One year, a little bit before Thanksgiving, someone abandoned a little dog on the highway just down from Daddy’s shop. She was just a little thing, a mutt. A stray dog on the 70 Highway usually meant a dead dog. A stray in front of daddy’s shop had an even slimmer chance, as the traffic was heavier with cars pulling in and out of the parking lot. Daddy was never an animal hater, but he was not a man that took on stray animals either. The usual method of discard was chasing them off to be somebody else’s problem.

But for some reason, Daddy let the one eyed dog stay around the shop. Before too long, he was feeding her and letting her sleep inside at night. Everyday, Daddy would open up his shop and be greeted by the little happy one-eyed creature. She adored him and whether he liked it or not, he was falling in love with her.

I found out about the dog thru a phone call to my mother. My experience with animals has been the exact opposite of Daddy’s. I had three dogs and a cat living in the house with me, which he found completely unacceptable and out of God’s plan. Momma told me about the little dog and how she worshipped Daddy, following his every step and move. She also told me how hard Daddy fought to keep anyone from seeing that he had fallen for her too.

When I spoke to him, he said, “I found you another dog!” He was referring to my habit of taking in strays but, I could tell by the tone of his voice that he was in no way serious about giving the dog to me. As we talked, he tried to make it sound like it was just another thing underfoot that needed to be discarded or put out of HIS misery. I had heard this broken record since I was a child. It was Daddy’s view on just about everything in his life. His kids, his business, his house, his wife, his taxes, (Especially his taxes) were all nuisances that he repeatedly professed he wished he’d never been saddled with. That was just the way Daddy saw things.

But when he talked about the dog, there was something different in his voice. Maybe it was the fact he was trying to talk and watch TV at the same time. Maybe I had heard the same old hogwash so many times I was only half way listening. Or may, just maybe, something was happening here that I had yet to understand.

Christmas came, and I made the pilgrimage home to see the folks and to meet the little animal. She had been there almost a month, and still had no name other than “dog”. The first time I laid eyes on her, I said, “Well she’s just a little bit of nothing.” Thereafter, I called her Little Bit.

She was just a tiny thing that carried the scars of abuse. Her black and white coat of fur was more dirt and grease than color. She had one shining eye that sparkled with life. Though she only had the one eye to see, I could see the sparkle turn to pure star fire when she was looking at Daddy. She was focused on him most of the time, and that made her happy.

I left that Christmas thinking that I should have brought Little Bit home with me. But I knew that I could not take on another animal as I already had four. So I turned to prayer, asking God to watch over her and keep her safe.

The first of the year came, and I called home. When I asked about Little Bit, Daddy said she was sick and acting strangely. He thought that she had worms and planned to go to the vet and ask for some worm medicine the next morning.

“Why not just take her in and let the vet look at her.” I asked.

“I’m not spending any money on that damn dog!’ he said. “If she dies, it’s just another dog. I’m going to get rid of her anyway!”
I was crushed. I knew in my heart that Little Bit was going to die, and there was nothing I could do about it.

The next day I went to work and tried not to think about the dog. I was successful till around 9 am, when I finally broke down and called the shop. My brother answered the phone.

“Is the dog still alive?” I asked.

“No.” he answered.

He gave me a short description of the events of the morning.
When he came to work, Little Bit was having seizures and was very ill. He said that he took her to his vet, but she was too far gone to save. She had most likely ingested antifreeze and it had destroyed her kidneys. The vet had volunteered to put her to sleep, and he had consented.

The needle found its mark, and the light that had once been so brilliant, faded from the one shining eye, never to return.

Little Bit was gone.

Somehow I had already known, but I was still upset by the news of the dogs passing. It was bound to happen sooner or later. With the danger of the highway and the chemicals used in the shop, there was no way around a little dog getting into some kind of deadly mischief.

I called my Mother that evening. She said she’d been crying all afternoon.

“I guess Daddy just doesn’t care.” I said. “After all, it’s just another dog.”

“Your Daddy has sit in his chair all afternoon without speaking a word.” She said, “He just looks out the window.”
She told me of how my Daddy had went to the shop the night before to check on Little Bit, and how in the morning, it was him who told my brother to take her to the vet and have him do whatever he could to help her.

I could hardly believe what she was telling me. My Daddy didn’t act like that! My Daddy didn’t think like that!  There was no way he would have paid a vet to take care of a little dirty, one -eyed dog that somebody had dumped on the roadside.
There was no way that its death had rendered him silent and solemn! It was just another dog…wasn’t it?

A strange peace came over me as I realized that God works in such wondrous and mysterious miracles by using such small things in our lives.
Little Bit wasn’t just another dog. She was a messenger with a purpose. God had sent that dirty, damaged, precious dog to touch my Daddy’s heart. Where others had tried a life time to reach his gentler spirit, a little one eyed dog had done it.

She came like a little angel and did her job. When it was done, she left us forever.

“I still feel bad.” I told my Mother. “If I had brought her home with me to the shelter, she could have been adopted.”
“But son, “Momma said, “She already was.”

WELCOME TO FT. DOGWOOD

This is from a blog I wrote for the original pet people blog site thru the Leaf Chronicle many moons ago--before I was involved in writing the weekly column. I loaned it to Sandy Britt to use for one of her columns--but I ran across it recently.   It is still pretty funny--so here it is again.

Welcome to Ft. Dog Wood! First line of defense and home of the Animal Army!!!

This is where hazardous duty is...well, hazardous doodie!

Service in this little company isn’t much different from that of the human military.General Lucy the Lab-- started it all (that’s right—WOMENS LIB at work)

There has been recruitment over the past six years as Charlie, Pearl and Hines have joined our merry little band of soldiers.

Who could resist that slogan?

PEE, ALL THAT YOU CAN PEE!!!

Pearl, of course, was a transfer from Ft Feline. Her specialty is night ops. She is only seen when she wants to be seen—code name “White Shadow”.

There are levels of rank: Lucy is the General, Pearl is the Lt Colonel, Hines is our Major, Charlie is a Sergeant, and …I’m a private.

***I find it extremely puzzling how I have been stationed at Ft. Dogwood the longest, yet I have the lowest rank.******

My basic training almost got the best of me as I was introduced to the life that would become routine.
First, there were routine shots and exams (none of them mine).
Then there was the endless marching ( up 7th street, around the loop or down to the River Walk and back).
The pursuit of unidentified personnel (squirrels) was always surprising.
Then there was standing in the rain while my fellows lay their special land mines.
And finally, the horror of stepping on one of them (see hazardous doodie) !!!!!

I soon graduated from basic, and over my career here, I have had many work assignments at Ft. Dogwood.
I have been : Recruiter, pulled KP, done Guard duty, drove Transports , served as a Barber, a Delousing Agent, , a Supply Officer, and Handler of Hazardous Waste.
I have also become the P.L.O – Permanent Latrine Orderly (Thanks A lot Andy Griffith!)

The roughest part of being a grunt in the Animal Army at Ft. Dogwood is the 5 AM reveille.
I am forced to rise when the General and her staff arrive… or clean up the consequences.
This is usually followed by PT – Poop Trip.
Then it’s up to the mess hall for chow---Dog and Cat chow that is.
Then, after the morning routine, they all file into quarters and go back to sleep.

In retrospect, our company has seen a lot of action.
There have been messy campaigns such as: Operation Couch Cushion, the Battle of the Bathroom Rug, and the unforgettably destructive War of the Wet Mattress Corner.
My least favorite duty is cleaning up after Target Practice (see War of the Wet Mattress Corner).
My superiors are demanding, yet very kind. I am constantly rewarded for my service.
I have received the commendation of Lubbins, 1st Class, Litter Paws, 2nd Class, and the Purple Snout (personally presented from Major Hines).

I hope someday to be promoted, but somehow I just don’t see it.
I have been lucky so far in this four legged troop.

I guess I’m in for life---a career man---

After all these years, you can’t even pick me out—I’m just another dog face.

Music Soothes the Savage Beast--Even at Dogwood

It has been said that “music soothes the savage beast”.


All of my four legged felons were sung to as babies. Though I’m no Hank Williams, it made them happy. Those songs still echo from time to time, through the  rooms of Dogwood.

Lucy is my oldest. When she came to Dogwood, I knew as much about having a pup in the house as I did having a million dollars. She was so little, and she cried a lot. So I would sing her the “I Love Lucy” theme.

“I love Lucy and she loves me…we’re as happy as two can be…”

She would lie cradled close to my heart, and stare up at me like I was the biggest fool in the world.

I was, and still am, for my first baby girl.

Charlie wasn’t as small as Lucy had been when he arrived. But he was just as cute. He was forever tripping over his big feet, and carried a look of despair once he’d righted himself. I found out early on that Charlie would be a hand full. He was always wet, or dirty, or chewing something he wasn’t supposed to.

Some things never change.

For him, I chose “Charlie Brown” . He was a clown, my Charlie Brown. He was always getting caught at his antics, and I could just see him with his little hang dog look asking, “Why is everybody always pickin’ on me?”

Pearl came to us on a stormy night, scared to death, and I tried to calm her with a song. All I could think of was “Pearl, Pearl, Pearl ”. Flatt and Scruggs used to sing it to Pearl Bodine on the “Beverly Hillbillies”.

“Pearl, Pearl, Pearl, come be my darlin’ girl...”

I can’t sing that song anymore. It breaks my heart.

Picking a song for Hines was a tough job. “Bad to the Bone” came to mind. “HELP!” seemed another obvious choice.

But as Hines is a show off, I sang “Act Naturally” for him.

“They’re gonna put me in the movies…”

Daisy got her name because the black patch over her eye looked like a flower. For her, I chose an old song my Daddy used to play by Mother Maybelle and the Carter family called “Wildwood Flower”.

“Oh he promised to love me and called me his flower…”

Bart, otherwise known as “El Barto”, can’t sit still long enough for a tune.

But he loves the Batman Theme, changed to please as “na na na na na ,Bartman!”.

Little Sebastian’s song came to me naturally. He purrs with delight at Elton John’s “Blue Eyes”.

“Blue eyes. Babies got blue eyes…”

Yes, it a fact: music soothes my savage beasts. Since I can’t afford a full orchestra to sooth my kibosh of convicts, and Dean Martin has passed on, we’ve made do.

They don’t seem to mind.

At Dogwood, even though we’re mostly out of tune, we still manage our own special kind of harmony.

Change in venue

WOW--today (October 5, 2011) is the first time in over two years that I haven't had a column in the Leaf Chronicle.  I never really had a chance to thank the Leaf and it's wonderful staff for the help and support they gave me during my Pet People tenure --so THANK YOU LEAF CHRONICLE--for everything!
Soooooo, No article in print anymore.  But thats OK--I really don't think print media is going to survive the next decade. But still, I am old fashioned, and not having an article in kindda made me sad.    It has been a part of my weekly routine that I have had to slowly give up over the past couple of months as we were closing on the new house and preparing to move.
Yes---not writing for the paper has freed me up abit. No more deadlines, no more re-writes no more calling and emailing to get pictures and info, and fretting over spelling and phrasing or erasing part of a story and starting over because I didn't like the "direction" I was ending up in.
No more "grammer -ectomys" at the last minute. 
Yep folks, writing 500 words is a hard job at times. Because I always wanted each one of those words to convey a message to you that ANIMALS NEED OUR HELP!!!  From the reaction I got from some of those articles, I think the re-writes and the last minutes surgerys did their job.
With the blog, I can post at my leisure. But I also have no editor (like the great Chris Smith) to look over my jumble and straighten out my spelling, wording, etc. So if you see a few klunkers in these words--just remember--spell check only does so much!LOL
So today the blog is the official source of all things Dogwood. Tell your friends--tell your enemies-- they are all welcome here.

Little ANGEL gets her WINGS!!!!!!!!!!

I received a phone call yesterday afternoon (Sunday Oct 2, 2011)from my rescue bro JD SAGLEY (pictured below with Angel)about little ANGEL being adopted. Angel was the second dog that was rescued from the roadside, who was covered in Dermodex mange. But thanks to the Dover/Stewart County Humane Society, the staff at North Stewart Veterinary Clinic, and the pack of Lisa and JD Sagley (foster parents first class), ANGEL fought her way back, and last Sunday found herself a new family with a Mommie, a Daddy, and a new sister (Pictured above)!
God is so good!!!