Tad is a turd. That is all.
Yes. He is entitled...BUT!
So...all weekend, I had him home with me, right? Okay...great. I took his entire assortment of toys, blankets, beds, treats, foods, etc. with me. I left the huge box of food related items on the floor. Everything was sealed shut, so neither of the other two would get into them. They are Tad's and he will get the majority of his goodies...but, the other two pleading eyes that belong to two overweight dogs are hard to resist... lol
So, all weekend, various bags from the box are being found all over my wee little house. They're not harmed...as in torn open and missing treats...just strewn about. Do you see where I'm going with this?
When I first rescued Walker, he often did this. He'd take a bag of treats of the couch or something and carry it to his bed and sleep on them. He didn't want to share, maybe? ...well, none of the bags are being found in beds. They're in the bathroom, living room, bedroom, behind the couch, etc.
I pick them up, put them back...and a few hours later...they're in a new place.
I never caught ANYONE doing it. I don't mind...whoever it is aren't eating them, just moving them around.
But, today...just after trying his Robe on...Tad went back into Isolation and his box of goodies from yesterday and today are sitting on the floor in there with him. He picked up a bag of Canine Carry Outs, carried it in his mouth, and dropped it next to his bed before curling up and going to sleep. :)
4/12/11
4/9/11
Massive Update
My computer crashed on Thursday, which was just super... So, I've been having a fun time trying to put things back where they go after the computer guy (http://www.facebook.com/agilecomputer or
http://www.agilecomputerservice.com) returned it to me. I'm having such a fun time that apparently, I'm missing a few things and things that worked right on Wednesday don't work right today and can't figure out just what that is...
So, enough about my darling computer. Let's talk Tad, shall we?
He's doing amazing. He really is. I heard his first bark on Tuesday, and this boy is definitely a hound dog! Here's a little video with his bark...and of course, him finding money on the ground for me!
Friday evening as I was putting Tad back into Isolation, he bumped the puppy gate and it fell over and cut his foot. Poor thing; he is definitely accident prone. :/
Here he is with his bandage...that he liked to rub his face on and such.
Tad has had a TON of support from his nearly 3,000 fans. We post up the cards, letters, and pictures in Isolation so he is constantly reminded just how many are rooting for him.
His new bed from The Weaver's came in, and he LOVES it. He also has gotten many lovely blankets!
Including his Milty Blanket! This picture was taken on Friday...he looks AMAZING.
I decided to take him home for the weekend. We're not sure how long he's contagious...some say 3-5 days after treatment and then he's no longer contagious...and some other's say they're always contagious. Blah.
I'll take my chances.
He's sleeping in the bathroom, though I have let him wander around the house a bit. He has this fear of getting out of the car, I think because my Tahoe is so high he doesn't know his own strengths yet. I have a feeling that he walks funny on his back legs because he's lacking so much muscle mass. Most dogs have a nice formed muscle, Tad has flab. It's becoming quite a challenge to get him to go back into the bathroom after letting him out...he's a pretty smart fella. But, the way to his heart is still with food right now. So, that does the trick.
On Monday, he'll get another skin scraping. He'll also get his second Sarcoptic Mange treatment (Frontline) as well as getting him some more antibiotics.
Thanks for the support...I'm backed up on videos, but I'll definitely get some up soon. :)
http://www.agilecomputerservice.com) returned it to me. I'm having such a fun time that apparently, I'm missing a few things and things that worked right on Wednesday don't work right today and can't figure out just what that is...
So, enough about my darling computer. Let's talk Tad, shall we?
He's doing amazing. He really is. I heard his first bark on Tuesday, and this boy is definitely a hound dog! Here's a little video with his bark...and of course, him finding money on the ground for me!
Friday evening as I was putting Tad back into Isolation, he bumped the puppy gate and it fell over and cut his foot. Poor thing; he is definitely accident prone. :/
Here he is with his bandage...that he liked to rub his face on and such.
Tad has had a TON of support from his nearly 3,000 fans. We post up the cards, letters, and pictures in Isolation so he is constantly reminded just how many are rooting for him.
His new bed from The Weaver's came in, and he LOVES it. He also has gotten many lovely blankets!
Including his Milty Blanket! This picture was taken on Friday...he looks AMAZING.
I decided to take him home for the weekend. We're not sure how long he's contagious...some say 3-5 days after treatment and then he's no longer contagious...and some other's say they're always contagious. Blah.
I'll take my chances.
He's sleeping in the bathroom, though I have let him wander around the house a bit. He has this fear of getting out of the car, I think because my Tahoe is so high he doesn't know his own strengths yet. I have a feeling that he walks funny on his back legs because he's lacking so much muscle mass. Most dogs have a nice formed muscle, Tad has flab. It's becoming quite a challenge to get him to go back into the bathroom after letting him out...he's a pretty smart fella. But, the way to his heart is still with food right now. So, that does the trick.
On Monday, he'll get another skin scraping. He'll also get his second Sarcoptic Mange treatment (Frontline) as well as getting him some more antibiotics.
Thanks for the support...I'm backed up on videos, but I'll definitely get some up soon. :)
4/5/11
Merial and Wellness Donations
Today has been a very lucky day for Tad. We received some donations of Frontline and Heartgard from our Merial Drug Representative. (Merial is the company who makes those products.) We also got a phone call from Wellness. They are sending us $100 in coupons to purchase his food as it would get here faster than shipping food, and is, of course, more economical for everyone.
I am super thankful for both of these companies and their support.
I am super thankful for both of these companies and their support.
4/3/11
A Place to Call Home
Charles and I had a long talk Friday night...like, really long. Some promises were made, and it was decided that Tad will stay here with us...forever. The way he looks at me, the emotion there, it's not something a camera can catch and I don't know that I could feel good about finding him a new home when all is said and done. This bond will only get stronger, and I don't know that I could betray him with a new family. I know that sounds mean; I can't find the right word...but, I'm sure you all know what I mean.
If you don't...perhaps this video may explain it better.
Charles and I went out last night and bought Tad a collar and a tag...I think he really, really liked it. He can't wear it all the time...it's way too big right now, so I don't want him unattended with it. He wears it outside on his walks, and I know he enjoys that.
We believe Tad's eyes are infected, and so he's getting an antibiotic eye ointment in them now along with wiping them clean a few times a day.
His skin is less irritated and inflamed, however he's more itchy. So, he's really tearing himself up with his nails.I think the Benadryl is helping with the itching some. But, the mange will get worse before it gets better, so we're prepared for that.
He'll get his first bath tomorrow, and I know that'll help him feel TONS better. His skin is getting dry and flaky now, so getting all that dead skin and scabs off will do wonders for him. The tops of his feet crack and bleed each time we walk him, and that makes me so sad. I hope that he will not suffer from dry skin his whole life. But, if he does...he'll get some skin supplements to keep that under wraps.
We're going to try and check his kidneys, liver, and other blood values tomorrow, as well as his heartworm status. I am nervous about what we may find, but I've got faith in Tad. He's cleared all hurdles thus far...what's a few more?
If you don't...perhaps this video may explain it better.
Charles and I went out last night and bought Tad a collar and a tag...I think he really, really liked it. He can't wear it all the time...it's way too big right now, so I don't want him unattended with it. He wears it outside on his walks, and I know he enjoys that.
 | ||
| Tag Front |
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| Tag Back - My # is under the white line. ;) |
 | ||
| Tad wearing his collar. |
His skin is less irritated and inflamed, however he's more itchy. So, he's really tearing himself up with his nails.I think the Benadryl is helping with the itching some. But, the mange will get worse before it gets better, so we're prepared for that.
He'll get his first bath tomorrow, and I know that'll help him feel TONS better. His skin is getting dry and flaky now, so getting all that dead skin and scabs off will do wonders for him. The tops of his feet crack and bleed each time we walk him, and that makes me so sad. I hope that he will not suffer from dry skin his whole life. But, if he does...he'll get some skin supplements to keep that under wraps.
We're going to try and check his kidneys, liver, and other blood values tomorrow, as well as his heartworm status. I am nervous about what we may find, but I've got faith in Tad. He's cleared all hurdles thus far...what's a few more?
4/2/11
FAQs
I try very, very hard to read every post made on Tad's Facebook Support Page. I try VERY hard. But, sometimes things get missed...forgive me.
I spent the last hour going through tons of wall posts and picture comments. A lot of you have questions that have been answered in various places throughout this blog, throughout his Facebook, etc.
I figured it would make our lives a lot easier to put them all in one place...saves my fingers the typing...forgive me if I just send you the link to this post when you ask a question that has been answered here. I am not trying to be a turd, and I want you to know the answer...this is just the easiest route to take.
What his is name?
His name is Tad. Initially, that was an acronym for 'The Abandoned Dog' for his medical record. We're a paperless hospital, and so he needed a name on Monday to be entered in. Tad has turned into an acronym for many, many things...all of them lovely and all of them right, but the main one being 'Totally Awesome Dog'.
Where was Tad found?
Tad was found just north of a small town in Texas called Willis. It's a little over an hour north of Houston, Texas. Tad was picked up off the side of the road (Calvary Road).
Have his owners been found?
I am Tad's owner now. Tad is mine. Whoever owned Tad before, even if they come forth to claim their negligence, they will not get him. Tad's condition did not happen overnight. He has been this way for a very, very long time. He's been neglected for months; and he's nearly starved completely to death.
Are the cops looking for his owners?
No. Simply because I did not report it; I honestly don't know the animal laws in this little country town. My main purpose is to save Tad's life and to raise awareness for people who feel like this is a one in a million situation. It is not. It happens all day long, every day...only some are more exposed to it than others.
What kind of a dog is Tad?
At this point in time, Tad is severely underweight. He is misshapen and he has barely any hair. It's very difficult for us to determine what kind of dog he is, only time will tell. All I can say is that the is, right now, tan and white and has enormous paws.
What is Tad's history?
You know as much as I do about Tad's history...I found him cowering on the side of the road suffering and in horrible pain. I don't know where he came there or how he winded up there; I have a strong suspicion that he was dumped.
How old is Tad?
It's hard to say because of his current body condition. We believe him to be between 1 and 2 years old. He has not been stray his whole life. There's no way. He belonged to someone at some point. He is completely potty trained, leashed trained, and is very polite and well mannered.
Who are you?
My name is Tiffany. I'm a state certified veterinary technician and I work at Wags 2 Whiskers Veterinary Hospital in Montgomery, Texas. I also own my own photography business, Minha Vida Photography. I'm 24 years old, and I live with my best friend and better half, Charles. We have a cat, 2 guinea pigs, 1 turtle, 1 frog, 3 fish, and 2.5 dogs. Why the half? I share custody of one dog, Pepper, with Dr. Holliday. You can read Pepper's story HERE.
Why aren't there any recent photos!?
Please understand that Tad was pulled off the street on Saturday, March 26. The pictures you are seeing on his Facebook and here in his blog are current/recent photos of him.
When exactly did you find him?
He was found March 26, 2011 around 5pm.
Is there anything you need?
You guys have given me the most respectable and loving support I never imagined. I cannot ask for more. Your care and kind words give me courage and strength to keep pushing. To keep rescuing...to keep trying to save lives.
What does Tad need?
Monetary donations are always accepted; check the upper right hand side of this blog. You'll see all the information you need regarding this type of donation.
Tad loves Cheese-Whiz. He currently has 5 bottles, all donated. Tad also loves chewies, but please do not send him anything knotted, twisted, or tied. You can see a picture of 'safe' rawhides on his Facebook page.
Tad has been donated a bed, which has not arrived yet. However, he has such terrible skin that he is in need of a few fleece blankets so that we can wash and dry one and give him the other to sleep with while they're being cleaned.
Tad is unsure of toys, and not entirely sure what he's supposed to do with them. Perhaps that will change in time. He's been donated quite a few toys.
The most important thing at this point is food. Tad eats Wellness Puppy Food. It's available here in my town at PetSmart and Petco. A gift card to those stores for his food would be much appreciated.
If you'd like to send Tad a 'get well' card, it will be hung on the wall in his isolation room. He will be happy to know that so many care.
If you send Tad objects of any kind, please make sure we have your return address. Thank you.
I want to visit Tad. What are the clinic hours?
Wags 2 Whiskers is open Monday through Friday 7:30am to 5:30pm. We are also open on Saturdays from 8:30am to 12:30pm. You can see our website HERE and our Facebook HERE.
Is Tad going to make it?
We see no reason, at this point in time, for Tad not to recover. However, we do not yet know how his liver and kidneys are functioning after the severe malnourishment, nor do we know his heartworm status. His skin is in too terrible of a shape and too painful to poke around in to draw blood. Hopefully, this coming week, we will run these tests on Tad.
What is wrong with Tad?
In short, Tad is very complex. He was infested with Hookworms and Roundworms. He has since been dewormed. Tad also has a severe yeast infection in both ears. Tad also suffers from two types of mange, which is very rare. He has both Sarcoptic Mange and Demodectic Mange. Tad is extremely malnourished and underweight. We guesstimate him to be about 30lbs underweight, at the LEAST. He also has deep wounds and lacerations around his neck, right front leg, and right ear. His skin and wounds are unfortunately VERY infected.
How are you doing with the donations? Do you need more?
At this point in time, and we are definitely still accepting donations. Eventually, Tad will need to be neutered, vaccinated, and of course, if he's positive, heartworm treatment. You guys have raised a little over $2,000 for Tad's care, and I can't thank you enough. It's going to be a hard road, a long one, but with your help...we are able to treat Tad with no set-backs. Thank you.
Does Tad have a home lined up?
For the next 6 -8 months, Tad will remain with me. I have had one nice woman seriously interested in Tad, and I have been talking with her through email. I have discussed with her the bond that Tad and I share, and explained to her that I was unsure, at this time, if I would be adopting Tad out.
Where is Tad?
Tad currently is hospitalized in Montgomery, Texas.
Was Tad abused?
I cannot say for sure. But, he most certainly was neglected, and that falls into Animal Cruelty, as far as I am concerned.
What is Tad in isolation?
Tad must remain in Isolation because he has Sarcoptic Mange. Sarcoptic Mange is very contagious to other animals and is a zoonotic parasite, meaning humans can get it.
Why don't you wear gloves when you mess with him?
It is a risk I take, and an occupational hazard. If Tad decides to bless me with his mange mites, then so be it. I feel that he needs all the love he can get.
Will all of his hair grow back?
Tad will have some scarring, I'm sure, where the wounds are. His ear, right front leg, and possibly on his neck, however...the hairloss from mange should recover into his normal coat when he is through with treatment.
How long before he's healed?
We aren't really sure. Generally, treatment is 4-6 weeks, but with his extreme immune compromises, it may be longer.
What are the benefits of Cheese-Whiz?
I'm sorry, but this makes me smile. The benefits of Cheese-Whiz are simple...you put pill on the floor, you cover it up and Chees-Whiz, and Tad eats it. Then, he looks up at you because he likes it and wants more. Cheese-Whiz is merely an incentive to get him to take pills, and of course...as a treat for being a splendidly good boy.
I will most certainly add more FAQs as the need arises, so this entry may get longer and longer. Thank you again, for all the care, concern, and support.
I spent the last hour going through tons of wall posts and picture comments. A lot of you have questions that have been answered in various places throughout this blog, throughout his Facebook, etc.
I figured it would make our lives a lot easier to put them all in one place...saves my fingers the typing...forgive me if I just send you the link to this post when you ask a question that has been answered here. I am not trying to be a turd, and I want you to know the answer...this is just the easiest route to take.
What his is name?
His name is Tad. Initially, that was an acronym for 'The Abandoned Dog' for his medical record. We're a paperless hospital, and so he needed a name on Monday to be entered in. Tad has turned into an acronym for many, many things...all of them lovely and all of them right, but the main one being 'Totally Awesome Dog'.
Where was Tad found?
Tad was found just north of a small town in Texas called Willis. It's a little over an hour north of Houston, Texas. Tad was picked up off the side of the road (Calvary Road).
Have his owners been found?
I am Tad's owner now. Tad is mine. Whoever owned Tad before, even if they come forth to claim their negligence, they will not get him. Tad's condition did not happen overnight. He has been this way for a very, very long time. He's been neglected for months; and he's nearly starved completely to death.
Are the cops looking for his owners?
No. Simply because I did not report it; I honestly don't know the animal laws in this little country town. My main purpose is to save Tad's life and to raise awareness for people who feel like this is a one in a million situation. It is not. It happens all day long, every day...only some are more exposed to it than others.
What kind of a dog is Tad?
At this point in time, Tad is severely underweight. He is misshapen and he has barely any hair. It's very difficult for us to determine what kind of dog he is, only time will tell. All I can say is that the is, right now, tan and white and has enormous paws.
What is Tad's history?
You know as much as I do about Tad's history...I found him cowering on the side of the road suffering and in horrible pain. I don't know where he came there or how he winded up there; I have a strong suspicion that he was dumped.
How old is Tad?
It's hard to say because of his current body condition. We believe him to be between 1 and 2 years old. He has not been stray his whole life. There's no way. He belonged to someone at some point. He is completely potty trained, leashed trained, and is very polite and well mannered.
Who are you?
My name is Tiffany. I'm a state certified veterinary technician and I work at Wags 2 Whiskers Veterinary Hospital in Montgomery, Texas. I also own my own photography business, Minha Vida Photography. I'm 24 years old, and I live with my best friend and better half, Charles. We have a cat, 2 guinea pigs, 1 turtle, 1 frog, 3 fish, and 2.5 dogs. Why the half? I share custody of one dog, Pepper, with Dr. Holliday. You can read Pepper's story HERE.
Why aren't there any recent photos!?
Please understand that Tad was pulled off the street on Saturday, March 26. The pictures you are seeing on his Facebook and here in his blog are current/recent photos of him.
When exactly did you find him?
He was found March 26, 2011 around 5pm.
Is there anything you need?
You guys have given me the most respectable and loving support I never imagined. I cannot ask for more. Your care and kind words give me courage and strength to keep pushing. To keep rescuing...to keep trying to save lives.
What does Tad need?
Monetary donations are always accepted; check the upper right hand side of this blog. You'll see all the information you need regarding this type of donation.
Tad loves Cheese-Whiz. He currently has 5 bottles, all donated. Tad also loves chewies, but please do not send him anything knotted, twisted, or tied. You can see a picture of 'safe' rawhides on his Facebook page.
Tad has been donated a bed, which has not arrived yet. However, he has such terrible skin that he is in need of a few fleece blankets so that we can wash and dry one and give him the other to sleep with while they're being cleaned.
Tad is unsure of toys, and not entirely sure what he's supposed to do with them. Perhaps that will change in time. He's been donated quite a few toys.
The most important thing at this point is food. Tad eats Wellness Puppy Food. It's available here in my town at PetSmart and Petco. A gift card to those stores for his food would be much appreciated.
If you'd like to send Tad a 'get well' card, it will be hung on the wall in his isolation room. He will be happy to know that so many care.
If you send Tad objects of any kind, please make sure we have your return address. Thank you.
I want to visit Tad. What are the clinic hours?
Wags 2 Whiskers is open Monday through Friday 7:30am to 5:30pm. We are also open on Saturdays from 8:30am to 12:30pm. You can see our website HERE and our Facebook HERE.
Is Tad going to make it?
We see no reason, at this point in time, for Tad not to recover. However, we do not yet know how his liver and kidneys are functioning after the severe malnourishment, nor do we know his heartworm status. His skin is in too terrible of a shape and too painful to poke around in to draw blood. Hopefully, this coming week, we will run these tests on Tad.
What is wrong with Tad?
In short, Tad is very complex. He was infested with Hookworms and Roundworms. He has since been dewormed. Tad also has a severe yeast infection in both ears. Tad also suffers from two types of mange, which is very rare. He has both Sarcoptic Mange and Demodectic Mange. Tad is extremely malnourished and underweight. We guesstimate him to be about 30lbs underweight, at the LEAST. He also has deep wounds and lacerations around his neck, right front leg, and right ear. His skin and wounds are unfortunately VERY infected.
How are you doing with the donations? Do you need more?
At this point in time, and we are definitely still accepting donations. Eventually, Tad will need to be neutered, vaccinated, and of course, if he's positive, heartworm treatment. You guys have raised a little over $2,000 for Tad's care, and I can't thank you enough. It's going to be a hard road, a long one, but with your help...we are able to treat Tad with no set-backs. Thank you.
Does Tad have a home lined up?
For the next 6 -8 months, Tad will remain with me. I have had one nice woman seriously interested in Tad, and I have been talking with her through email. I have discussed with her the bond that Tad and I share, and explained to her that I was unsure, at this time, if I would be adopting Tad out.
Where is Tad?
Tad currently is hospitalized in Montgomery, Texas.
Was Tad abused?
I cannot say for sure. But, he most certainly was neglected, and that falls into Animal Cruelty, as far as I am concerned.
What is Tad in isolation?
Tad must remain in Isolation because he has Sarcoptic Mange. Sarcoptic Mange is very contagious to other animals and is a zoonotic parasite, meaning humans can get it.
Why don't you wear gloves when you mess with him?
It is a risk I take, and an occupational hazard. If Tad decides to bless me with his mange mites, then so be it. I feel that he needs all the love he can get.
Will all of his hair grow back?
Tad will have some scarring, I'm sure, where the wounds are. His ear, right front leg, and possibly on his neck, however...the hairloss from mange should recover into his normal coat when he is through with treatment.
How long before he's healed?
We aren't really sure. Generally, treatment is 4-6 weeks, but with his extreme immune compromises, it may be longer.
What are the benefits of Cheese-Whiz?
I'm sorry, but this makes me smile. The benefits of Cheese-Whiz are simple...you put pill on the floor, you cover it up and Chees-Whiz, and Tad eats it. Then, he looks up at you because he likes it and wants more. Cheese-Whiz is merely an incentive to get him to take pills, and of course...as a treat for being a splendidly good boy.
I will most certainly add more FAQs as the need arises, so this entry may get longer and longer. Thank you again, for all the care, concern, and support.
4/1/11
Puppy Gate Annihilation
I was off today, but I went in this morning for a few hours to care for Tad. We're trying to limit the number of people he has access to in case there's a Scabies outbreak. I've had it before, and I'm at high risk for getting it from him...but, what do you do? Occupational hazards, they come with the job.
I am so happy with how he's recovering, and I say that a lot...but, I really truly am. He was trotting along on our walk this morning and I had to run to keep up with him. It was awesome.
I walked him down a little trail to get him to the bluebonnets (it's a Texas thing!) and there were some thorns that really scratched up his legs...poor guy. I felt terrible.
Tad had a good morning this morning. He annihilated a puppy gate. He had fun jumping over it, running rampant throughout the clinic with us chasing him. Then, he'd follow me back to isolation, and he'd do it again a few minutes later. He had a blast...but, I have to buy a new puppy gate, now.
All in all, I am very pleased with everything about him. He was incredibly itchy today, so we started him on some Benadryl to help with that. Generally, steroids is what we'd use to help with the itching from the Sarcoptic Mange, but because he also has Demodectic Mange, he can't have steroids. Purrdy Pawz Grooming Salon has donated a tea tree oil spray to see if that would give him some relief. He's also starting to make his own tears, so we're cutting the eye medicine down to twice daily instead of three times. He's gained 3lbs since Monday, and we're oh so happy about that.
Here's today's happy video! It's sure to make you smile! ...oh, and be sure and look at his ribs! There's a thin layer of fat covering them!
I am so happy with how he's recovering, and I say that a lot...but, I really truly am. He was trotting along on our walk this morning and I had to run to keep up with him. It was awesome.
I walked him down a little trail to get him to the bluebonnets (it's a Texas thing!) and there were some thorns that really scratched up his legs...poor guy. I felt terrible.
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| Tad - 4/1/11 |
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| Puppy Gate Annihilation |
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| Tad 4/1/11 |
Fight For Them
Tad's story has become such an incredible journey; a journey that only started 6 days ago. It's a journey that I am so happy to be a part of...a journey that I will remember for the rest of my life.
While Tad's condition is heart breaking, and the thought of him shivering under the stars with no hair and no shelter, starving to death, worms eating him from the inside, and mites eating him from the outside breaks our hearts even more...what about all those out there that have not been given such an amazing recognition and support. All the dogs, cats, guinea pigs, horses, cows, pigs...everything.
The thought of all these animals out there, on their own in their horrible homes or running free...I think that breaks me even more. Tad, Patrick, and others have been pulled...they've been saved. There is hope for them...but, where is the hope for those animals in your own neighborhood, your own town, your own county...? Who will fight for them?
I know that many of you probably pass by a house or two every now and then, or every day, and there are dogs chained in the yard...or there are dogs severely overweight that they cannot function or there are cats who make about 20 more cats every year...or there are even dogs living in a fenced off area in the back corner of their family's home living in their own filth...who will fight for them?
So, you don't have money to donate, I get that...me either...but you have a voice. Those animals that you pass, that you know are in need of a voice...let them use yours. Speak out...spread the word. Fight for these poor souls who suffer at the hands of others.
Tad and Patrick, and others like them...are not one in a million...they are the norm these days. You may open your eyes to that truth and accept it, or you may remain in denial. I leave that to you...but, I challenge you...as you drive around living your daily life...and you say, 'I wish I could help...'...be reminded that you can. You don't need money...you don't need toys...blankets...anything.
You have a voice... Speak out...fight for those who can't.
...and when you sit there, on the other side of this screen from me...and you say, 'But there are just too many...' I encourage you to read this story...it's short, and will take less than 5 minutes to read.
The Starfish Story
I don't feel that Tad was 'abused', he was severely neglected, yes...but, I feel there are many different levels of animal cruelty; I've personally seen them all. You can have your emotional cruelty, physical, and even mental cruelty. There are so many ways to abuse...and some of the most unfortunate pets receive all three.
I don't ask much from owners. I only ask that you feed them the best you can, and you love them with as much love as you can...and if you can afford vet care...I strongly encourage that, too.
I know, from being a technician, that there are many types of pet owners out there. There are many ways people 'love' and many more ways people 'care'. I accept them all, as long as I can understand them.
I get it...the economy is bad, you're unemployed, you're a college student...I really do get it. I completely understand.
However, Tad's conditions did not happen overnight...it would have taken months for his skin and intestinal parasites to thrive as they are on and in his body. Don't you think you could go without internet for a month...without TV...without cigarettes or booze...without the club on Friday night?
You couldn't go without that for just one month to help ease the pain and suffering of your only friend who will be loyal, true, and love you unconditionally until the end...no matter what?
While Tad's condition is heart breaking, and the thought of him shivering under the stars with no hair and no shelter, starving to death, worms eating him from the inside, and mites eating him from the outside breaks our hearts even more...what about all those out there that have not been given such an amazing recognition and support. All the dogs, cats, guinea pigs, horses, cows, pigs...everything.
The thought of all these animals out there, on their own in their horrible homes or running free...I think that breaks me even more. Tad, Patrick, and others have been pulled...they've been saved. There is hope for them...but, where is the hope for those animals in your own neighborhood, your own town, your own county...? Who will fight for them?
I know that many of you probably pass by a house or two every now and then, or every day, and there are dogs chained in the yard...or there are dogs severely overweight that they cannot function or there are cats who make about 20 more cats every year...or there are even dogs living in a fenced off area in the back corner of their family's home living in their own filth...who will fight for them?
So, you don't have money to donate, I get that...me either...but you have a voice. Those animals that you pass, that you know are in need of a voice...let them use yours. Speak out...spread the word. Fight for these poor souls who suffer at the hands of others.
Tad and Patrick, and others like them...are not one in a million...they are the norm these days. You may open your eyes to that truth and accept it, or you may remain in denial. I leave that to you...but, I challenge you...as you drive around living your daily life...and you say, 'I wish I could help...'...be reminded that you can. You don't need money...you don't need toys...blankets...anything.
You have a voice... Speak out...fight for those who can't.
...and when you sit there, on the other side of this screen from me...and you say, 'But there are just too many...' I encourage you to read this story...it's short, and will take less than 5 minutes to read.
The Starfish Story
I don't feel that Tad was 'abused', he was severely neglected, yes...but, I feel there are many different levels of animal cruelty; I've personally seen them all. You can have your emotional cruelty, physical, and even mental cruelty. There are so many ways to abuse...and some of the most unfortunate pets receive all three.
I don't ask much from owners. I only ask that you feed them the best you can, and you love them with as much love as you can...and if you can afford vet care...I strongly encourage that, too.
I know, from being a technician, that there are many types of pet owners out there. There are many ways people 'love' and many more ways people 'care'. I accept them all, as long as I can understand them.
I get it...the economy is bad, you're unemployed, you're a college student...I really do get it. I completely understand.
However, Tad's conditions did not happen overnight...it would have taken months for his skin and intestinal parasites to thrive as they are on and in his body. Don't you think you could go without internet for a month...without TV...without cigarettes or booze...without the club on Friday night?
You couldn't go without that for just one month to help ease the pain and suffering of your only friend who will be loyal, true, and love you unconditionally until the end...no matter what?
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| Tad - 4/1/11 |
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