I got the following story "Do I Go Home Today" in an email.
I can't begin to tell you the sadness I felt. I have seen so many
dogs, and cats, in this situation.
Do I Go Home Today?
My family brought me home cradled in their arms.
They cuddled me and smiled at me and said I was full of charm.
They played with me and laughed with me and showered me with toys.
I sure do love my family, especially the little girls and boys.
The children loved to feed me; they gave me special treats.
They even let me sleep with them - all snuggled in the sheets.
I used to go for walks, often several times a day.
They even fought to hold the leash, I'm very proud to say!
These are the things I'll not forget - a cherished memory.
I now live in the shelter - without my family.
They used to laugh and praise me when I played with that old shoe.
But I didn't know the difference between the old one and the new.
The kids and I would grab a rug, for hours we would tug.
So I thought I did the right thing when I chewed the bedroom rug.
They said I was out of control and would have to live outside.
This I didn't understand, although I tried and tried!
The walks stopped, one by one; they said they hadn't the time.
I wish that I could change things; I wish I knew my crime.
My life became so lonely in the backyard, on a chain.
I barked and barked all day long to keep from going insane.
So they brought me to the shelter but were embarrassed to say why.
They said I caused an allergy, and then they each kissed me goodbye.
If I'd only had some training as a little pup.
I wouldn't have been so hard to handle when I was all grown up.
"You only have one day left", I heard a worker say.
Does that mean I have a second chance?
Do I go home today?
~ Author Unknown ~
Mostly I am going to refer to dogs since that is what the email is about but it goes for any animal; dog, cat, rabbit, horse, etc...
Getting a pet is a big decision. It's not something that should be made on a spur of the moment - for example driving down the road and seeing someone has some cute puppies on the roadside for sale. This relationship may work out but I know of many that did not. And yes, having a dog is a relationship. There are several things that may not be thought of at the time with a whim decision. A pet is something you should plan to have for a life time. They will need love, to be cared for, and trained. They should be considered a part of the family and not something to throw to the aside when their cuteness wears off. Some train easily and other would try the nerves of a saint when being trained. Don't forget when a puppy is small and jumps up to greet you ~ its cute. Is it so cute when a full grown 70 pound dog does it and it feels it everyone should be greeted like that? Vets are a big part of having a pet... They need vaccinations, spaying or neutering, yearly tests like heartworms and monthly (or daily) heart worm preventatives, unexpected illness or accidents.
Please think before getting a pet. Be sure it is something you truly want and that you are ready to handle the responsibilities. Pets don't come as a perfect packages but they can being years of enjoyment. Please, let's not keep the following story a reoccuring cycle... And if you decide you truly want a pet, please visit your local shelter, SPCA or humane society. These "throw away pets" deserve another chance at love and happiness. When you gain their trust you will get unconditional love and acceptance beyond compare.
Back To Doggy Dog World
Houston SPCA
Humane Organizations in Texas
Email: wolfesence@aol.com
