Topic: Response to those who think I care only about the animals
Softballmom
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I have 3 kids but Gator my little 4 legged baby is like one of them. Of course I don't put him above them.
Last year when I was so sick my husband was working the kids were in school but Gator was right by my side through every day.
The days I felt like I couldn't go on he was there and made me feel better when I was so down.
Many who have Lyme and other ailments depend on pets for support, some to survive and some just to have something around them.
Alot who don't have children or a partner have pets as their family. A friend of mine has cats as her family. When her first cat died of Feline Leuchemia she started a foundation to raise money for research of the disease. www.marleyfund.com Not that she is less compasionate about humans but because that is the cause she felt the need to donate her time and money into.
There are enouph people in this country to take care of any need there is but alot of people choose not to contribute at all.
Let the people who choose to help animals do it without rebuke. Everyone is different and there paths are not all the same. It doesn't mean that there priorities are screwed up.
We do fork out alot of lute on our animals but I do care for mankind as well.
Yes I spend alot of time and money for my animals and others in need but I provide many services for humans in my comunity personally and also give donations when I see fit or the need.
-------------------- It's not the Lyme, I just can't spell! Posts: 1331 | From North Carolina | Registered: Sep 2004
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First I want to tell Sapphire that I wholeheartedly commend what your husband is doing. Please would you express my gratitude and admiration to him. And perhaps he could pick up some stray animals along the way, or drop off food and water... :-)
Thank you all for your support. It is very frustrating to be working so hard to support the animal rescue efforts, and also be compelled to defend my reasons for doing so.
In reading at the animal rescue boards, this is an issue faced by many people involved in the animal rescue efforts. As I write this, I can't see the thread so I don't know who to credit for this, but excellent point about people who are not doing anything. People who feel the need to criticize should consider directing their condemnation at them.
I echo the sentiment of those who are frustrated about not being able to help because of the added risk imposed by dysfunctional immune systems. I have been generally accepting of my Lyme-induced limitations, until now.
This is the most frustrated I have ever been. Because I feel so helpless for not being able to get to the area to provide hands-on help, I have been compensating for this by spending endless hours reading and posting to message boards and listservs to relay information to people who _are_ in a position to offer hands-on help, and to solicit donations to animal rescue groups from all the people unfortunate enough to be in my email address book. It is truly amazing and inspiring what so many people are doing.
Suzanne
-------------------- Suzanne Shaps STAND UP FOR LYME Texas (www.standupforlyme.org) (Please email all correspondence related to protecting Texas LLMDs to [email protected] with copy to [email protected]) Posts: 977 | From Austin, TX, USA | Registered: May 2004
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Thanks Suzanne, I will definitely tell hubby. I just talked to him and he was on his way home but he will be going to Murfreesboro, TN to bring a camper home so he and our son can leave early in the morning for Baton Rouge.
I feel bad for him, he also has lyme. Fortunately his isn't too bad. He is running on very little sleep and I hope that doesn't do him in. I know it makes him feel better to be able to do something though.
I do want you to know that I have a donation jar set up in our business to collect for the animals. I will be sending it to Noah's Wish. We are going to match what we get(up to a certain amount) and I hope we get alot. I'm not able to be there or I could get more I'm sure.
I told hubby it is crazy for all those trucks pulling campers to go empty. I don't understand why they can't fill them up before they leave. He said he didn't see any place for a drop off of supplies where they leave the campers. You would think someone would think of that. How hard would it be to set up a drop off at that location.
I know we could send a truck full each trip if we just knew where to drop it off. Such a waste in my book and also it would get there faster if they would load all these trucks. Off my soapbox now.
Thanks for all your hard work. You are doing alot of good so don't feel like you aren't doing much because you are.
Take care, Sapphire101
Posts: 495 | From KY USA | Registered: Dec 2004
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Noah's Wish is a great group. I hope you get lots of donations! And great of you to have the company match.
Have you talked to your LLMD about any additional immune support, or possibly increasing abx?
Suzanne
-------------------- Suzanne Shaps STAND UP FOR LYME Texas (www.standupforlyme.org) (Please email all correspondence related to protecting Texas LLMDs to [email protected] with copy to [email protected]) Posts: 977 | From Austin, TX, USA | Registered: May 2004
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Kara Tyson
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It isnt a matter of expendable. It is a matter of people come first.
A child thinks like a child. They cannot see the forrest for the trees.
What if a pet had bit someone? Most likely that pet is not vaccinated. That person would have had to go thru tentanus shots and possibly rabies shots.
What if there was a person with asthma without their medication? What if that person died because of someone's cat or dog--after hours on a bus? Or would their life's sacrifice be worth it...so someone has their pet?
We are not talking about gradually moving people out of an area. We are talking an emergency. These people had to go. Right then, right now.
Some people may view their pet as their child and that leaving their pet was like a child.
But do you realize there were mother's who had to leave their dead babies in the dome? These mother's may never get to bury their child. The name tag may have gotten lost--perhaps rats ate the baby (rats are now eating the dead).
Can you imagine a reporter going up to a mother and saying, "I guess you understand how hard it was for someone to have left their pet behind seeing as you had to leave your dead baby?"
Just because I belive that humans are superior doesnt mean that I am an animal hater any more than the rest of you are people haters.
But I am a speciest. I believe that humans are far superior than beasts and that animals were created to serve humans. It doesnt mean that you abuse them, but it does mean that they are lower on the food chain.
-------------------- Kara Tyson Lyme Disease Support Group Of Alabama--MobileChapter Posts: 6022 | From Mobile, AL | Registered: Apr 2001
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quote:Originally posted by Kara Tyson: But I am a speciest. I believe that humans are far superior than beasts and that animals were created to serve humans. It doesnt mean that you abuse them, but it does mean that they are lower on the food chain.
A speciest? Did you just make that up? It doesn't even show up on Google as a real word. You make it sound like it's a defined philosophy or something. How you describe it though reminds me of a cold, robotic way of viewing the world......no emotion, just definition cut and dry. That is really a sad thing, really. It's not a real word obviously because most people see pets as very valuable living creatures that support human life. They really do. And often times, they serve more importance in society than a lot of loser people do in this world. Most people look at living creatures, whether it's a person, a dog, a cat, etc., in terms of what it contributes to society.
Under your new word "speciest", a loser like Charles Manson is much, much more superior than a dog that's super sweet and kept an older lady alive and happy for many years. The dog obviously has much, much more importance and contribution to society than Manson, and most people realize that.......and that's why speciest isn't a real word. It's not a word that's needed.....no one wants it, well except for a few people maybe.
Sue vG
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Guys, there's nothing that can be done about these divergent views. Understanding and acceptance will not be achieved, no matter how long this thread runs.
Just don't ask a speceist (sp?)to pet sit for you.
Posts: 1307 | From TX | Registered: Sep 2002
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Kara Tyson
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PETA uses the word Speciest (similiar to racist) to denote those that dont believe animals are equal to humans.
I hope these groups who are resueing animals (and boating by humans in their homes) are finding good homes for the alligators and the snakes. They arent mean, they are just misunderstood. They would be nice if they had not been opressed by mankind.
Hmm. an alligator or a human..which to rescue?? That's a hard one.
I voice my opion. It is irrelevant if understanding or acceptance is a part of it. Everyone must agree in communist thought.
-------------------- Kara Tyson Lyme Disease Support Group Of Alabama--MobileChapter Posts: 6022 | From Mobile, AL | Registered: Apr 2001
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JillF
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quote:Originally posted by Kara Tyson: PETA uses the word Speciest (similiar to racist) to denote those that dont believe animals are equal to humans.
I hope these groups who are resueing animals (and boating by humans in their homes) are finding good homes for the alligators and the snakes. They arent mean, they are just misunderstood. They would be nice if they had not been opressed by mankind.
Hmm. an alligator or a human..which to rescue?? That's a hard one.
I voice my opion. It is irrelevant if understanding or acceptance is a part of it. Everyone must agree in communist thought.
I think the majority of us have made it very clear that we think humans come first and animals come second.
If you chose to read something else that is not being said, so be it.
And there is a huge difference between a cute toy dog vs. an alligator.
I also doubt seriously that those rescuing pets are rescuing the alligators and snakes but if you want to think that, go ahead.
[ 12. September 2005, 07:47 PM: Message edited by: JillF ]
Posts: 1485 | From USA | Registered: Apr 2004
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GEDEN13
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most of you know me and the compassion i have for dog's. i have adopted many.
both the dog and i benefited from the adoption.
but if it came down to it,jr.would be in the oven for my survival.plain and simple.i love the little guy i adopted.
if i were laying dead on the floor,and jr. had not eaten for day's or week's,i am sure he would eat me for his survival...gary
p.s, i think we are in for a real bad winter. hey jr., come'er,time to fatten you up!! where's the katsup! yum ,yum....
Posts: 1108 | From PA. | Registered: Jun 2003
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Actually, Gary, no. Your dog would not eat you if you died first. Further, your dog would not kill you for the express purpose of eating you, no matter how hungry he might be.
At a gas station in MS, a man was found dead, his hungry and thirsty dog sitting dutifully by his side, watching over him.
When rescue crews were able to go back to retrieve the body, the dog had not eaten him.
The good news is that the dog was rescued, and someone has come forward to adopt him.
-------------------- Suzanne Shaps STAND UP FOR LYME Texas (www.standupforlyme.org) (Please email all correspondence related to protecting Texas LLMDs to [email protected] with copy to [email protected]) Posts: 977 | From Austin, TX, USA | Registered: May 2004
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quote:Originally posted by Kara Tyson: PETA uses the word Speciest (similiar to racist) to denote those that dont believe animals are equal to humans.
I hope these groups who are resueing animals (and boating by humans in their homes) are finding good homes for the alligators and the snakes. They arent mean, they are just misunderstood. They would be nice if they had not been opressed by mankind.
Hmm. an alligator or a human..which to rescue?? That's a hard one.
I voice my opion. It is irrelevant if understanding or acceptance is a part of it. Everyone must agree in communist thought.
Well it figures PETA made that word up. They're more interested in convincing people not to fish because they feel it's cruel, and have much less interest in the stray animal situation in America. They do do some good, but they're really just an animal activist cult which is too bad. They get a lot of PR.
Where you find animals you can find humans. It's a fact that many many homes have been searched with X marking info. on the house which is helpful to the animal rescuers. In these areas the people have already been sought out. In the areas where they haven't, it's likely to find humans where they find the animals because lots stayed behind because they didn't want to leave them. So they will likely save human lives in the unsearched neighborhoods.
Obviously your comment about alligators and snakes is pure smarty pants, and you know they're primarilly looking for dogs and cats, maybe a few other pets. But hardly snakes and alligators. A snake doesn't usually become a family member or contribute anything to my family like a cat or dog does.
Let's see, I'm going to drive my boat back and forth down the street passing a poor sweet dog on a car trying to get me to stop while I can't find any humans to save.....oh yeah, we have to have the bodies picked up first too. LOL. It's just an amazing, shocking point of view. It's mind blowing to me.
I posted a thread about animal rescue efforts on a major guitar amp board that sees about 10,000 members a day, and there was a flood of support with posts and donations. And not one person out of all those people had a problem with saving the animals. I know a lot of donations were sent in which has been great, but I thought there would be at least a few getting upset about it. But there wasn't, and what a great feeling to see that support going to the animals.
We post our opinions like you post yours, Kara. No one thinks they're going to change your mind. But for the sake of others that are in the process of formulating their opinions on the subject, it's important for us to make our case and contrast it with yours.....which is anti-animal.
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Softballmom
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PETA are extemist in the support of animals. I hope you weren't comparing us to them. I am no where near an extemist.
On the ground Kara you have to remember that the rescuers all human. They take each moment of their day with what it brings before them. They are not looking for the animals but the human side of them makes it hard to keep on going and just passing the situation by.
you can't fault people for being human.
Maybe we need to recomend only Speciest should be rescuing. Maybe they would do a better job.
-------------------- It's not the Lyme, I just can't spell! Posts: 1331 | From North Carolina | Registered: Sep 2004
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I agree that PETA's views and tactics are extreme. I stopped donating to them many years ago, as soon as I realized this.
-------------------- Suzanne Shaps STAND UP FOR LYME Texas (www.standupforlyme.org) (Please email all correspondence related to protecting Texas LLMDs to [email protected] with copy to [email protected]) Posts: 977 | From Austin, TX, USA | Registered: May 2004
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GEDEN13
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really don't matter if jr. eat's me or not.he would still go in the oven for my survival.
but these are all make believe situation's. nobody really know's what they are gonna do,until that situation come's up. , gary
Posts: 1108 | From PA. | Registered: Jun 2003
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In the process of offering my home as a fostering place for up to 3 pets from the NO disaster, I have submitted a request to adopt another dog.
Gary, please with the Daniel Boone survivalist stuff. The depth of your relationship with that animal is that you would put him in the oven? You would however start with the neighbor who leaves his recyclables on YOUR side of the driveway... wouldn't you.
If you're a winner or a loser, that animal will be loyal to you forever.
One of the first reactions that told me I was getting better w/abx, was letting the dog in and the wheels turning "I should get another one".
I was very sick and was frightened at the responsibility a year ago.
When I was laying in bed before abx with the sweats, pain, fever... the cat would stay near me all night.
I would rather die with my animal in my arms then use it as part of my menu to survive an additional day.
-------------------- Lymester Posts: 519 | From CT | Registered: Jun 2004
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Andie333
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Well said, Lymster I couldn't agree with you more.
It's great that you're fostering animals from the storm. There was an amazing post I read on petfinder:
A woman in CA had posted that her husband witnessed a scraggly black dog literally pull an older and infirm man through the storm waters to safety.
Her husband was a CBS photographer and, when he realized the man and dog weren't together, he rescued both of them.
He took the dog back to his own home in CA and got the man to higher ground and a safe place so he could find his family. The photographer's wife posted that she hopes the dog's owner will be able to find her.
I guess that's my point with this whole thread: it seems to me there's always room in the boat for one more... but, hey, that's just my boat
Andie
Re PETA -- I'm not real great with political extremism of any stripe. Never have been!
Posts: 2549 | From never never land | Registered: May 2005
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GEDEN13
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lymester , you know nothing of me and the rescue's and the adoption's i have done in the past few year's.
i have adopted senior's,that NOBODY will adopt or rescue.they see them as old and not much time left.so why bother.
i am the one who cared and and made sure they had a home and proper medical care.
i was with them at the time of there passing.holding them till there last breath.i shed the tear's of there passing!!
i buried there lifeless little bodies and also a part of me!!
where were you?????
so don't you dare give me that anial boone crap!!
i have anothr senior,someone threw away.i will go through the same thing with him.
so get off your soapbox!! know of what you speak,before you say it..
YOU ,left your dog's outside!! what kind of person are you? afraid that they might bring in tic's? brush them!! bath them!! care for them..hippocrit!! ,gary
p.s. how dare are you..
Posts: 1108 | From PA. | Registered: Jun 2003
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LabRat
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Well, if you ask me, and no one did, but if I were king, I'm sure I could do a better all around job. It seems to me while all that went wrong and all that went right is fresh in our minds, we sit down and make some notes as to what we should do and not do next time!
Want to save the companion animals? I'm all for it, let's make plans for the next time, get the cages in stock, plan the shelters for animals. There's no telling how many died by refusing to leave their animals to save themselves! Have maybe ten or twenty regional shelters for the refugees to go to or be taken to if they have no transport. Set up for say 100,000 in each shelter and have extra shelters in the vicinity of high-density populations.
It would amaze you what we could do if we set our mind to it and could get politics and politicians out of it some way.
Posts: 1887 | From Corpus Christi, Texas | Registered: Oct 2000
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Kara Tyson
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In 2001 there was a lady in Texas who did drugs and passed out. Her poodle ate her lip off...and she still didnt wake up!
-------------------- Kara Tyson Lyme Disease Support Group Of Alabama--MobileChapter Posts: 6022 | From Mobile, AL | Registered: Apr 2001
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quote:Originally posted by Kara Tyson: In 2001 there was a lady in Texas who did drugs and passed out. Her poodle ate her lip off...and she still didnt wake up!
Hmm, She was on drugs and passed out and the dog ate her lip off. Wonder how long it had been since that poor animal had anything to eat.. Animals are like humans in that noone is born rotten they are MADE that way either by some kind of chemical inbalance and or abuse of the physical and or emotional nature.
Kara Tyson
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If the dog was hungry and it ate her lip off, I dont think the dog is rotten...it is just hungry.
-------------------- Kara Tyson Lyme Disease Support Group Of Alabama--MobileChapter Posts: 6022 | From Mobile, AL | Registered: Apr 2001
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If you had any kind of relationship with your dog, you'd eliminate that possibility. 99.9% of all dogs wouldn't do it anyway.
Posts: 600 | From Las Vegas, NV | Registered: Nov 2004
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Saying you'd ever come to a point you'd consider putting your pet in the oven was ridiculous.
As you said, these situations are made up so would you think you'd even have an oven in a survival situation?
Yes, I left the dog outside. For about 15 minutes to 1/2hr, depending on weather conditions, the temperature and how long it takes the little guy to go to the bathroom and enjoy the outdoors.
I do this several times a day and probably up to 100 times a week. I guess you didn't understand.
I have been rescuing animals since I could have my backside slapped or my parents saying "now what the H-E-L-L are you bringing home."
I'm not going to have a pissing war with you Gary, you sound pretty tired and angry. I was offended by the "jr" thing. It came across as ignorant. I thought more of you than that.
-------------------- Lymester Posts: 519 | From CT | Registered: Jun 2004
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Andie - thank you so much for your comments in this thread. You made some really impressive points that apply not only to pets but to everyday life! Values and Responsibility - wouldn't it be nice if everyone had some?
Seems like we're all gettin' into somewhat of a pissin' contest as we hicks like to say and well - I'm feeling a little soapboxy today so, forgive me if I ramble!
While I do view MY pets as "part of my family" and am one of those PET LOVERS, I do understand that not everyone feels the way I do. Yet, I totally agree that when a person "CHOOSES" to have a pet then he or she should accept the "responsibility" for it's LIFELONG care.
This would apply to not only feed and water but, safe housing, vaccinations etc.
NOPE, they don't need spa days or clothing but, pets do need love and attention. They need to be restrained in a yard or by other means so that they won't be hit by cars or otherwise injured. The person who has the pet is RESPOSIBLE for it and should be held ACCOUNTABLE.
There have been times in my life that merely knowing I have the unconditional love and affection of my dog has been something that kept me going.
I love my child and my husband fiercely but, if faced w/ a similar situation there is no doubt that I would have done everything humanly possible to evacuate w/ my animals. I only hope and pray that I am never ever faced personally with what these folks have dealt with or have to make such horrifying decisions.
Being on the paranoid side normally -- I would have loaded everybody up and headed for the hills when they said the hurricane "MIGHT" hit my coastline! For me, that includes 4 dogs, 2 cats, a horse, a sickly OLD pony and a goat! I have several evacuation plans should I ever need to leave suddenly. THESE guys are my responsibility and I take it very seriously.
Would I at this point in my SICKLY, MONEY CHALLENGED life go out and obtain all the previouslly mentioned buddies - NOPE.
But, I have had most since before LYME dx and while they don't visit the groomer anymore and vet visits are limited to emergency situations, I RESPONSIBLY provided adequate shelter, food water, maintenance etc. At such a time that I become unable to do so then it becomes my RESPONSIBILTY to find someone who can.
This brings a point that many of the people affected by this tragedy "CHOSE" not to evacuate early as advised by the state. By doing so, they not only jeopardized their life and the life of their family but, also the lives of the rescuers tasked w/ getting them out and finally, the lives and well-being of their animals.
Unfortunately, there was also a population that was "UNABLE" to evacuate due to lack of money and/or transportation. Human and animal life was lost in this case. In this day and time in our country, this is a tragedy I simply don't understand.
We could argue endlessly about who is at fault but, the lives lost would not be regained.
Our city is hosting several hundered evacuees. Many who arrived here did so early and via their own transportation w/ their beloved pets and have to this point been able to secure and pay for motel/hotel lodging.
But most who arrived here are being housed in the Red Cross shelter and experienced the horrific conditions of the Superdome.
I am soooo very tired of hearing that "racisim" is a factor in the evacuation process and feel that those singing that song are the folks who only want a hand-out now as in their previous lifestyle.
I know in my case and after speaking w/ many residents of my city, I NEVER at any time during the Katrina landing thought - those poor white people couldn't get out and may be killed.
I didn't think - those poor black people couldn't get out and may be killed.
I simply cried as I heard of the tragic situation ALL the people and animals of Louisiana, Alabama and Mississippi were facing.
Our city's sheltering of these evacuees was somewhat of a surprise as there wasn't much forewarning; however, our community rallied in a most amazing way and have been able to open not one but two shelters for those needing a place to stay.
A call went out for volunteers to bring supplies, sort supplies, man the shelter etc. My entire family is quite ill from Lyme,BArt, & BAbs disease and it is very unwise for us to be mingling amongst large groups of people of any race or culture.
I felt so guilty that we were unable to jump in and man the battleship so, we tried to figure out ways we could help. We tore through the house finding items requested. I used a good percentage of the budget to buy toilet paper etc for donation. I gave as much money as I could spare but, wanted to do more.
So, I tried to find a way to offer assistance where I was able. Having a pasture, barn, extra kennel and a LOVE for all animals, I called and posted on websites that we would offer lodging to livestock and/ or other pets in order to relieve at least that small part of a family's stress.
My family is "fostering" the pet of an evacuee family from New Orleans who arrived in the middle of the night on a bus from the superdome. They thought enough of this dog to bring her with them.
No - they were not able to take her to the Red Cross shelter and rightfully so; however, as in most communities, our humane society received these pets and arranged for caring homes until their families can get back on their feet.
Here is where I am seeing a problem - at least in our situation. The family in question apparently is a multi-generation government assistance family. Neither work as far as I can determine. They have at least 5 children and only 3 were fathered by the guy I met. Only 2 arrived in our city and at the time I met the family, only the baby remained w/ the parents.
These kiddos weren't tragically seperated from their parents they were just left w/ different friends and families for a reason I really couldn't figure out.
Mr. Evacuee contacted the Humane Society asking for us to bring their dog to the shelter so they could visit w/ her. We agreed on a good time and I had to jump through hoops to arrange a place etc due to liability issues that per potentially there for the shelter and staff should the dog attack someone!
Upon meeting the wife for the first time, it didn't even take 5 minutes for her to begin putting the racisim card into play regarding their stay at the shelter. She indicated because they were black, our shelter staff were treating them like "animals".
As far as I could tell, she felt this way because they were being asked to sign in and out when leaving and were asked to monitor their children, not smoke inside, wear shower shoes when bathing, keep their belongings tidy. She was irritated that meals occured at specified times and mostly, that she was sleeping in a crowd of people.
These things are all inconveniences that ANYONE faced w/ an evacuation of this magnitude should expect to face. It wasn't anything racially motivated on any level from what I could tell. But, I let her vent and tried to be understanding because I KNOW I would have been FREAKING out had I been in her situation!
She continued to tell me of how she would be able to access funding and basically saying that she was OWED all this different stuff because she had been on Section 508 housing in Louisiana.
She told me within the first 10 minutes of our meeting that she was getting on the first bus she could or finding a ride and taking herself and her baby to Houston because they would be more able to get government assistance there.
She told me she had sent her 5 year old daughter already that day w/ "some guy" who was going that way. She described how the "Red Cross" would pay for 2 or 3 weeks in a hotel and she was going to check in to one as soon as possible.
Even while her husband was saying to her to just be patient and remain in our city at the shelter until they could get their bearings she was figuring how to milk as much as she could from those willing to give.
At no time did she say, I need a "safe" and "clean" place for my children - why, because that was provided for her here.
At no time did she say, I need nutritious food to feed my children - why, because that too was provided for her here.
At no time did she say, I need a safe good education environment for my children - why, because that too was provided for her here.
At NO TIME, did she say, what can I do to help w/ this shelter situation. Can I wash dishes, sweep, mop help pick up the litter - NOTHING. I know when I stay at the Ronald McDonald house in CT, I never EXPECT them to do everything for me! I love helping in any way I can while we are there because I am so grateful they are helping me!!
Our citizens were COMPASSIONATELY, LOVINGLY, and WILLINGLY taking off from work, using funds, transportation, whatever they could to provide a AS GOOD of an environment as could be expected in such a situation.
I offered to drive back that afternoon after she had time to go to the Red Cross meeting and pick her up and bring her to my home to wash clothes, rest, let her 5 month old baby rest and maybe prepare "home cooked" meal. I thought maybe that would help her feel less like an animal to have some private time.
Nope. She took another drag of her 2nd cigarette and again pointed out she was "entitled" to government housing and she was going to "get it" one way or another.
As w/ any situation, this is only one example ; however, as my friend told me yesterday when she went to the nail salon to have her nails done. There were shelter evacuees there having pedicures and manicures apparently using their Red Cross money for something important.
I wonder if they thanked the nail salon for reducing the prices for these services?
My friend is a hair stylist and told me that she had been bombarded by evacuees wanting cuts and colors and perms for next to nothing. They wanted her to donate these things because they were evacuated from a hurricane.
They EXPECTED her to negatively affect her method of income just because they felt we OWED them something.
I love being pampered w/ the best of them but, seems like there are times when you just have to be patient and deal w/ what is NECESSARY first. That is how my family is required to live EVERYDAY.
Right now, I am unable to afford some luxeries as well as the type of groceries we are used to buying because I "CHOSE" to lend support to those I was lead to believe were in NEED.
I do know one thing . . . the sweet puppy kisses I get EVERY SINGLE TIME I pass by my Katrina Survivor Dog makes me feel happy I did foster her. I never have to wonder if I did the right thing. She survived Katrina, the Superdome, a night or two on I-10, was covered in fleas and somewhat horrified too! I offered her what I was able and it appears to be satisfactory!
I haven't heard a single word from her people since the day I took her for her visit. I wonder how they are doing and hope things are going well.
I wonder how long this little sweetie will be living with me and hope, if they do reclaim her, they will provide her w/ the love and care she deserves.
ALL life is precious in His sight,
Sherry
hmmmm - I'm feeling a tad bit better now - thanks so much to lymenet for allowing me a place to rage on at times and to you my fellow posters for talking about things other than that which shadows our every day life !
-------------------- Posts: 704 | From Huntsville, Texas | Registered: Oct 2000
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Softballmom
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 6235
posted
Makes you wonder what she did to the Poodle to make it want to eat her lip off? Get the whole story. Maybe she used the little dog for batting pratice in her spare time.
Poodles aren't the usual animal to nibble on body parts.
Gary, I have heard you in the past talk about your recue pets. I think it is a wonderful thing you do for those geriatric doggies.
Given that I have heard you speak of them. I believe you would use all survival mechanisms before you roast one of your elderly friends. I think it is just hard for some to hear the referal of doing so.
I just can't even imagine the thought of eating one of my animals.
how did we get to this subject anyway?
-------------------- It's not the Lyme, I just can't spell! Posts: 1331 | From North Carolina | Registered: Sep 2004
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LabRat
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 78
posted
Good post Ponytail, Through personal observation and conversation with people who deal with the ``financially challenged'', it seems some of the ``career'' ones know the rules and regulations of entitlements better than the people who administer the programs and I'm not saying that to be funny! I wouldn't want to trade places with anyone in that situation but it appears if you know the ropes, you can survive.
Posts: 1887 | From Corpus Christi, Texas | Registered: Oct 2000
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posted
Someone was looking for the source of this quote:
"The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." -- Mahandas Gandhi (1869-1948)
-------------------- Suzanne Shaps STAND UP FOR LYME Texas (www.standupforlyme.org) (Please email all correspondence related to protecting Texas LLMDs to [email protected] with copy to [email protected]) Posts: 977 | From Austin, TX, USA | Registered: May 2004
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posted
I took in a feral kitty about 6 months ago that was born in the bushes at my work. She immediately warmed up to people and now you would never know she was ever wild. I named her Biscuit, but I would certainly die before I ever ate this Biscuit. She's the sweetest and happiest cat I've ever come across in all my years.
Posts: 600 | From Las Vegas, NV | Registered: Nov 2004
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GEDEN13
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 4151
posted
lymester ,a pissing war? you thought better of me?
i never heard of you,or never had any contact with you.can't see how you know me to make a judgement of me.
cause if you did know me,the"cold winterand fattening up jr." you would have known i was joking.
also with the"where's the katsup"? phrase. i would use mustard.
and yes,i could beat you in a pissing contest,since you bought it up.....gary
hell, now i ain't gonna get back to sleep,been demoted a star.maybe if i am a good boy,the star fairy will give back to my 5 star statis.darn,darn,darn....i'll behave..
no wonder i can't sleep,star fairy took nother. i guess i'm in for a long day.taking away my life's blood.how much longer must i suffer?
[ 15. September 2005, 03:07 PM: Message edited by: GEDEN13 ]
Posts: 1108 | From PA. | Registered: Jun 2003
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-------------------- ~Things may happen in my life time to change who I am but I refuse to let them reduce me...~ Posts: 968 | From private | Registered: Jan 2005
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posted
Joooo, is that the family photo? They're beautiful.
24-bit: Amazing pics, amazing cat.
Our's is 7 yrs old now and was the runt. I found her in the parking lot hiding under a rock. Brothers and sisters were larger. She was our first baby.
-------------------- Lymester Posts: 519 | From CT | Registered: Jun 2004
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treepatrol
Honored Contributor (10K+ posts)
Member # 4117
posted
Link may offend
Family MealThe Family Meal. In Akha society, dogs are often loyal pets until about age one, when they are sacrificed and eaten. After the slaughter, it is believed that the dog's spirit will watch over and guard the home. People do it. I dont think I could eat my personal pet if I had to but someone elses probaly. Brutaly honest here.
-------------------- Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Remember Iam not a Doctor Just someone struggling like you with Tick Borne Diseases.
-------------------- ~Things may happen in my life time to change who I am but I refuse to let them reduce me...~ Posts: 968 | From private | Registered: Jan 2005
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Softballmom
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 6235
posted
In Korea there is an old tale that when your dog reaches 7 it will turn into a wolf. Some Koreans are known to kill their dogs and eat them before they reach that age. Horrible!!!
-------------------- It's not the Lyme, I just can't spell! Posts: 1331 | From North Carolina | Registered: Sep 2004
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Linda LD
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 6663
posted
My husband was in Korea or somewhere in asia and was playing with some puppies at a restaurant. He motioned to the waitress he want to eat--didn't speak the language. she disappeared and brought him a wonderful meal. But when he was leaving he noticed the puppy he played with the most was gone... ugh, I m married to a man that ate a puppy!
On Katrina...Weirdly enough I agree with all ya'll. I did scroll by some...
But folks need to remember that many of the people who wouldn't leave their animals are old and often mentally ill. That animal may be the only love and companionship they receive. Many may be shut ins...
As for my animals I love them dearly--and I know first hand when my house burned as a kid my first questioning on learning that was, "my Mom..?" and then "my animals!" The stuff doesn't matter--its just stuff.
As for the dead bodies, if they pose a threat to disease--get the bodies. but I tell my step kids--when I'm dieing come see me--I don't care if you come to my funeral or not. That old appalachian saying about "bring me flowers while I'm alive."
l
Posts: 1171 | From Knoxville, TN US | Registered: Dec 2004
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posted
"No man can be condemned for owning a dog. As long as he has a dog, he has a friend; and the poorer he gets, the better friend he has." - Will Rogers
-------------------- Suzanne Shaps STAND UP FOR LYME Texas (www.standupforlyme.org) (Please email all correspondence related to protecting Texas LLMDs to [email protected] with copy to [email protected]) Posts: 977 | From Austin, TX, USA | Registered: May 2004
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Andie333
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 7370
posted
jooooo
What a great bunch. Who's alpha in this pack?
And 24...your cat is gorgeous! We also took in a feral cat in Dec. He was being fed by the woman down the block but decided he wanted to live here.
Night after night he waited. In the rain, two nights in a row. Didn't cry. Just waited.
Finally, we bought cat food. And the dog figured out he was going to have to share his water bowl.
This little guy is so affectionate and verbal. I've never heard a critter talk so much.
He went from sleeping under the bushes to sleeping on Egyptian cotton sheets.
I have to say I admire his audacity, respect his judgement and adore him!
Andie
Posts: 2549 | From never never land | Registered: May 2005
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Kara Tyson
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
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posted
I sometimes wonder why we in the West are offended at eating animals with fur yet we think nothing of consuming a cow.
We may disapprove of Asian countries eating dogs/cats but Indians think the same of us eating cows.
Why is the consuming of one animal viewed as ok, but others not ok?
-------------------- Kara Tyson Lyme Disease Support Group Of Alabama--MobileChapter Posts: 6022 | From Mobile, AL | Registered: Apr 2001
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posted
Hey Labrat - long time no hear from you - hope you are doing well (or at least better) !! Thanks for the kudos!
Regarding the animal consumption, I know how I feel and that is I don't want to kill/cook/eat something I know or have cared for, named etc.
In my case, this is why my farmer brown hiney doesn't allow the "feeding out" of a calf or hog etc at our home. Something my husband is really huffy about and threatening to do all the time especially since the pasture is knee high and needing mowed AGAIN!
I believe Indians (from India) view the cow as a sacred beast in their religion (I could be making this up but, seems like I remember it from somewhere - just hope it wasn't fiction)!
I just don't feel right about it but, I am less troubled by chicken and fish tho - seems a little unfair to them! I guess I will remain a carnivore as long as I can purchase meat products in faceless, nameless packaging from HEB!
I try to picture a situation so dire that I would consider eating a dog or cat or horse and I thank God everyday that nothing that tragic has ever remotely happened to me.
I feel like dogs, cats or any "pet" for that matter is a "companion" animal - not for consumption .
I speak to my dogs as if they were children and for the most part - they behave FAR better than most of the kiddos my friends are raising.
So far, not such great luck w/ my teenager tho - wonder where I went wrong ??
Perhaps, she should have had a crate, blankie, squeaker toy and a nasty old sock w/ knots in it. Hmmmm - probably too late to redo it tho and w/ her current attitude, she'd probably turn out TOUGH and DRY if we tried to cook her !
Anyway - there's my take on this for now! Every person is entitled to his/her own belief and/or custom - that's the beauty of living in the "land of the free". I don't have to like what they do or even agree with it and vice versa!
Basically, I'm responsible for my family which includes various fur bearing creatures and an amazing porch residing hoppy toad!! So far, all are safe from the kitchen!
Personally, I'd probably survive quite nicely if COKE and Ice Cream were food groups!! Wouldn't it be lovely . . .
Sherry
-------------------- Posts: 704 | From Huntsville, Texas | Registered: Oct 2000
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quote:Originally posted by Kara Tyson: I sometimes wonder why we in the West are offended at eating animals with fur yet we think nothing of consuming a cow.
We may disapprove of Asian countries eating dogs/cats but Indians think the same of us eating cows.
Why is the consuming of one animal viewed as ok, but others not ok?
That's an easy one to answer. BECAUSE THEY'RE OUR PETS!!! Lol. There's this thing called emotion.....and it exists with our pets and the type of animals they are. Seeing other animals similar to our own pets that we love is why we don't want to see them harmed. Did I really just have to explain that? Yup. Posts: 600 | From Las Vegas, NV | Registered: Nov 2004
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posted
Yeah, Biscuit is very photogenic. She hardly ever takes a bad picture, and makes me look like I know what I'm doing with a camera. Posts: 600 | From Las Vegas, NV | Registered: Nov 2004
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Andie333
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 7370
posted
Pony, I spent a month in India a few years ago. They do hold the cow in a sacred position, because they view all the gifts the cow offer essential to their way of life.
There's a McDonald's in Delhi, and they serve a chickpea type burger rather than hamburger.
Each day, the cows would be fed. They just roam the streets in Delhi and the surrounding areas. People bring food offerings to them.
While there are some dogs as pets, many dogs run wild in packs.
Kara, I couldn't resolve that fur thing you talked about. As a result, I haven't eaten any red meat in about 25 years.
I still don't feel entirely comfortable eating chicken or seafood (well, I make an exception for lobster) but they are part of my diet. I just don't have the whatever-it-takes to be completely vegetarian...
Andie
Posts: 2549 | From never never land | Registered: May 2005
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Kara Tyson
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 939
posted
The only people who really seem to go out of their way to avoid killing animals are the sect of Hindu's that use a cloth to swat away bugs when they walk (so they accidently dont swallow a gnat).
-------------------- Kara Tyson Lyme Disease Support Group Of Alabama--MobileChapter Posts: 6022 | From Mobile, AL | Registered: Apr 2001
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posted
Hey Kara - it never ceases to amaze me the things you know or even find to read about!
In a billion, million years, I don't think I'd ever have the ability or desire to learn some of the things you seem to know!
I used to know stuff but, even then, it was really a more geographically centered knowledge and basically, I've lost even that somewhere along the way!
I believe you must be a very smart and educated person! What are you studying in college?
Just curious!
Thanks for all the info you provide and the thoughts you provoke - keep up the good work!
Sherry
-------------------- Posts: 704 | From Huntsville, Texas | Registered: Oct 2000
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Softballmom
Frequent Contributor (1K+ posts)
Member # 6235
posted
Kara since you want to compare the countries I thought I would throw in the fact that they execute you if you kill a cow!!!
Americans don't put their animals in that high reguard so therefore you used a poor example.
Some animals were placed here for human survival and some for human service. It is not very hard to determine whitch ones are meant to eat and not to eat.
Also you can't run out and buy a cow to house train and let him sleep in the bed with you. Train him to turn the lights out and get you a drink out of the fridge. Lead you back home when you get lost. Sniff out drugs at the airport and sniff out dead bodies in debree. Sniff out a missing child over countless miles.
The animals that we are speaking of here are a nessesity to us weather some want to believe it or not.
I will also place money on the fact that some of these dogs that are left homeless will make their way to a place to trained as service dogs. Giving back to the comunity that saved their lives.
-------------------- It's not the Lyme, I just can't spell! Posts: 1331 | From North Carolina | Registered: Sep 2004
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I heard one news account where the rescuers were refusing to rescue a blind lady and her guide dog. She refused to be rescued until they agreed to bring her dog too.
Now that one seemed like a no brainer. This was a service animal that the lady depended on.
I believe people need to be rescued in priority but, still don't see why they couldn't have at least allowed them to bring their "pets" if they wanted to and at least to get them to "high ground"! I certain w/ all the confusion though - they were all doing the best they could.
I totally get why pets can't be placed in the people shelters because of allergy, fleas, potential for injury to others etc - but, still seems like they could have let them ride in the boat out of the flood area - if there was room!
Oh gurl - don't dis the COW trainers of the world though!!! I will say, we did have a nice Brangus heifer a while back that would play ball and come when you called her! I never did manage to get her to sit, stay or lie down though
And I had a hen named Victoria that waited everyday for me on the porch so we could take a walk and "talk" some chicken talk! She loved to be held and "clucked" to - mainly just by me! My hubby tried it a few times, but apparently she didn't feel the love there!! She was the coolest girl and a good egg layer too!
All I know is I'm glad I live where I live and am able to have the type of animal interaction I do because I just love all these friends of mine!
In fact, my sheltie daughter is peering at me w/ those "isn't it time to snuggle in the bed and watch Regis and Kelly" eyes!! She can be sooo demanding!
Take care and have as good of a day as you can! Sherry
-------------------- Posts: 704 | From Huntsville, Texas | Registered: Oct 2000
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Kara Tyson
Frequent Contributor (5K+ posts)
Member # 939
posted
Pony,
I just read alot. That's it. I could kick myself for not remembering the name of those Hindu's that swat away gnats because I wanted to put a photo up.
I am being edumicated in Nursing. But I will end up teaching a Science or perhaps nursing of some type.
I am very opinionated but just my personality. I respect all opinions. It is good to have opinions. I may not agree, but I think it is important.
So far as smart..HA! In primary school I was put in special ed classes because an iq test said I needed to be there!
-------------------- Kara Tyson Lyme Disease Support Group Of Alabama--MobileChapter Posts: 6022 | From Mobile, AL | Registered: Apr 2001
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hmmmm - I'm feeling a tad bit better now - thanks so much to lymenet for allowing me a place to rage on at times and to you my fellow posters for talking about things other than that which shadows our every day life ![[kiss]](graemlins/kissing.gif)
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- it never ceases to amaze me the things you know or even find to read about! 
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