On Dogs and Homes

In preparation for the wonderful day that I adopt my beautiful shelter pup, I've been reading all kinds of books and magazines about dogs and dog health. Now, keep in mind, that I grew up with having a dog. I think I can name every pet we ever had, and what happened to them: Cinders (cat), ran away when I was just over 1 year old. Spook (daschund), hit by a car when I was about 3. Cricket (mutt), we gave away in favour of keeping one of her pups. Tiger (Cricket's pup) died of old age at about 15. Topper was next (lab/shep cross), died of old age at 12. But even with all that practical experience, I think I should be up-to-date on all things doggy.

So yesterday I went out and bought this months' 'BARK' and 'Animal Wellness' magazines. So far I've enjoyed the read, and the stories from other dog lovers are great. Alot has changed in the way people treat their dogs and facilities and programs for pets now abound. Heck, even some hotels are dog friendly now!!!! Wow!!

One of the stories I read in 'BARK' magazine, made me think of the homeless guy that was visiting Sierra last week. The story in the magazine is about a womand named Lori Weise, who co-founded North Hollywoods' Downtown Dog Rescue. She has gone into some of the scariest and most dangerous neighbourhoods to help not only homeless dogs, but people. I guess in N.Hollywood, many low-cost housing places tell people that they have to make a choice...a roof over your head, or your dog! Alot choose to remain with their dog..perhaps the only thing that has every truely loved them. So Ms. Weise has helped take some of these dogs in for vetrinary service, licensing (if you don't have an address, you can't get a dog license), etc. She is doing amazing work GOOD ON YOU MS. WEISE.

This leads me back to the homeless guy. Now, I don't live in N. Hollywood, not even in the USA. I live in Canada in one of the most beautiful, progressive provinces our country has to offer. Why don't we have places like Downtown Dog Rescue? Or do we, and nobody really knows about it? I know we have our SPCA's, Pounds, and Shelters, and a few non-profit organizations, but do we have anyone that specifically deals with dogs of the homeless? Whether or not the guy who was visiting Sierra was part of her first family, I wonder if things would be different for him if he could have a dog, even a small one.

Look what having one has done for me; gotten me off my butt to finally buy a town house, something I should've done years ago, but was always discouraged from (that's another story). It's made me read up on dog nutrition, dog friendly places, even which parks allow dogs off leash. Having Sierra in my life has also made me calmer, my headaches ease up when I'm with her, she is a true joy in my life. So think what having all of that might mean for this homeless guy. Maybe a pup in his life would give him the motivation he needs to find a job and get a home, after all, the pup needs to eat. Maybe a pup is just what this guy needs; a little pure love to help get him back on track.

Sierra is mine, I hope this guy finds his.