I realize it has been a few months since last writing an article, but that is because unless something is worth writing about why pass on the news.

     However,  in one of my daily newspapers there was a particular article that caught my interest and I hope it will attract your attention as well. This particular article is mainly pertaining to dogs, but one could apply it to all of our animal friends.

     One of our local SPCA's is excitedly getting ready for their yearly fundraiser in order to be better equipped to offer a variety of services to lost, injured animals that are usually left to their own vices for survival.

    They are planning on a "Bow Wow Howl - O - Ween Hustle" which will take place on October 13, 2007. This exciting event is sponsored by the Ellis County, Texas SPCA and I am very pleased that not only are they holding this very worthwhile event, but the mind set of exterminating lone cats and dogs is becoming a thing of the past.

     Everyone and every animal that is willing to attend is more than welcome to come dressed in costume and join a long line of paraders through "Getzendaner Park and past the cemetery in Waxahachie, Texas.

     "Dogs and their walkers are invited to wear Halloween costumes. Contests will follow the run."

     "SPCA event organizer Kari Fulce said this is the fifth year for the "Hustle" and it has gotten a little more interesting every year."

     "Some people get extreme, they dress their dogs up. Some even dress themselves up. Someone dressed their dog up as a "Chick-fil-A" cow and put a little "Eat Mor Chikin" sign on it, she recalled.

     "It is nice to see so many animals, so many dogs in one area, getting along," she said. It is always great to see dogs that were adopted from the Ellis County, Texas SPCA."

     Personally, I have never formed a very nice opinion of SPCA's anywhere in the country, but lately my mind is beginning to change. I can still see where they must kill those animals that remain unclaimed by ownders. I do understand why so many dogs and cats specifically are not adopted by other loving families.

     However, over the past few years I have become aware of how they are beginning to change, re-arrange and update their facilities to accommodate many more by saving them. Many SPCA centers around the country have become much more attune to the saving of a life, as opposed to the elimination.

     They are beginning to provide state of the art medical assistance, which in the past very few did. Their main goal today is to try to improve the health of the dog or cat and to eventually try to match pet to owner. This is an attitude that I enjoy much more than the way it was in the past.

     Once a person or family for that matter are matched up with a particular dog or cat, the SPCA does their best to educate the people. They are taking the time to further explain how bringing in any pet, but in this case dogs and cats, are a responsibility.

     Pets of any kind are not toys, inatimate objects that can be tossed aside when you become tired or bored and yearn for something new. It true ly is a committment that must be recognized long before you even make the decision to take in  a pet.

     Back to this exciting even that will be held on October 13, 2007 I am convinced it definitely is a step forward. During the course of the day I am in hopes that many of the sheltered dogs and cats will have the opportunity to meet with their prospective owners. This is the first step to a long and lasting relationship that at least on the dog and cat side will never let you down.

    They all are such wonderful companions and offer such a devotional love that can never be measured. You on the other hand must make an effort to understand where the dog or cat is coming from. It is always up to you to reach out offering love, understanding and companionship. Any of the animals adopted from a shelter come with a history and with a little understanding and love all that once was can be erased to begin anew.

     Anyone who thinks they may be interested in joining in the festivities or making a donation:

            www.elliscountyspca.org

                          or call

                    972-935-0756

     I personally thank all of you who have taken time out of your busy day or evening to read this.

 

 

Written by:
Karen Palumbo
Photography by:
Robert Palumbo
9/28/2007