Dogs

It has been far too long since my last blog. I can blame that on too much happening in the world. Women are still being treated like chattel in several countries; children are still starving; religions are still fighting against other religions; nature seems to hate us (can you blame her?); and politicians are still playing politics. It is very hard to pick out one injustice to write about, especially now when the days are short and the sun doesn't shine very often. This contributes to SAD, and makes it hard to even have the energy to get out of bed. So with all these enervating things going on, I have decided the only sensible thing to blog about is - dogs.

Dogs offer so much to us, and ask so little in return. They are always glad to see us; they never complain if the house isn't clean; they'll eat anything we put in front of them; and they let us know if there is someone or something around that shouldn't be. If we need to get out of the house, they are always ready to go for a walk. If we need to sound off about someone or something, they always listen but never talk back. And if we need to sit and cry, they are always there offering support and love.

Then there are the dogs who do more, not that the list above is not enough. But some dogs can smell out cancer, or tell if someone is going to have a seizure. These dogs are truly life saving.

Some dogs are now teaching children to read. Many libraries support the Paws to Read and similar programs to help someone learn reading skills. I know this works because an Airedale terrier taught me to read many years ago.

Dogs have been trained to sniff out drugs or bombs. They have learned to guide the sightless through the city streets. They go into the schools with children who would otherwise not be able to negotiate the school hallways or classrooms. They have proven invaluable in war, and have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. This last is probably not quite right; I don't think dogs are willing to die for a country or a certain regime. But they are willing to die for their human, no matter what color or religion the person is.

As the saying goes, if you are lucky enough to have a dog, you are lucky enough. If you don't have a dog in your life, think carefully before acquiring one. Do NOT buy one from a pet store. Most of these dogs come from puppy mills, although a few stores are now working with animal shelters to place homeless dogs in good forever homes. And please remember that a dog will need food, shelter, love, and, sometimes, the care of a good veterinarian. If you are not able to make these commitments, in both time and dollars, please do not get a dog. You will do more good donating to a shelter.