Those of us who work in animal rescue deal with people on a daily basis.

We see the best and the worst of humanity.  We comfort people grieving the loss of their beloved dogs and cope with people who callously want to give up their dogs  for a number of insignificant reasons.  The list of reasons is long and frustrating.  It could make even the most optimistic and happy-go-lucky shelter volunteer become cynical and world weary.

We’ve had people ask us to take their dogs because they’ve purchased new furniture, carpet, or hardwood floors. We’ve been asked to take young dogs that are still exhibiting normal puppy behaviors as if they‘re responsible for their own training. Senior dogs with health issues seem to be getting dumped more frequently, too. A nice reward for years of loyalty.

Lack of time, a new baby, a “sudden” onset of allergies, moving to a new home, getting a new puppy. These are all excuses that we hear far too often, and most of them have nothing to do with a poor economy. They are a perfect example of a throw-away society running rampant.

Welcoming a dog into your life is a commitment of at least ten to fifteen years, sometimes longer. Dogs are  willing to commit their lives to their people and deserve the same comfort and security in return. A dog is not something to keep your kids entertained until the end of summer vacation.

He will stay with you through good times and  bad.  He is willing to be trained, eager to please, and can become accustomed to that new baby.  While there are some extenuating circumstances in life that may force some people to give up their dogs, relocating and remodeling don’t seem to qualify.  Cuddling on an old worn out couch with a dog is better than sitting on a new piece of furniture any day.

The annual “Walk for Animals” held on Sept. 11 was a great success. The MCHS is incredibly grateful, once again, for the community support. The generosity of people was amazing and more than $24,000 was raised to help our shelter.

On Sunday, Nov. 6, Lisa Dockstader from “The Portrait Shoppe” and Emily Mayotte of “PawshStyling” will once again sponsor and host the holiday pet photo shoot at Oak Park Mall in Austin. The event will be held from 1 to 4:30 p.m. in the Oak Park Mall Community Room.  A special time for cats only is scheduled from 4 to 4:30 p.m. Christmas cards and portraits are available.

Finally, the MCHS is thankful for the memorials received in memory of Judy Burtness, Frank Dennison Sr., Ronald Snyder, and our special “Molly” from the MCHS.

By Carey Sharp
Mower County Humane Society