OT: It's a dog's life

Just to put out another point of view..... Many years ago we had a dog. A German Shepherd who loved people. My parents both worked and we kids were in school all day. Dog needed to be outside. We could leave her loose in the back, with porch/shelter always food and water. Or we could chain her on the front porch, again with food and water. She preferred the front. She did not get tangled with the chain, was able to see her friends, get pets and all. Was safe from the elements and happy.(Large front porch.... old house.)

Now she did go in when we were home, but liked being outside during the day, often even on weekends.

Before the leash law, she would stay most of the time on the porch, but had her "rounds" to make. After the leash law was put into effect, people would come around to see the dog.

Pati, in Phx

Patti S wrote:

It is my understanding that a long term tie out is now illegal in CA. Don't know any details but it is mentioned on a rescue site here. All the animals and children here have been catered to in extreme ways. Not so much money as care. They do pretty well that way. A dog doesn't understand lavish furnishings those are really for the humans. We have a great yard full of pooch friendly fun. They can come inside as they like. (cats are inside only) Georgia had surgery a couple of years ago and that was not cheap but within ability and made her quality of life a lot better. I met a man with a dog while in the vet one day. His poor dog had had a couple of problems/surgeries by 6 years. The owner was bringing him in for cruciate ligament surgery (I think), a third operation. He said folks kept asking him how much his 'friend' was worth. That is pretty tough to put a price tag on up to the point where it is just financially impossible. My husband has said he wants to come back in his next life as my dog. Being treated well is worth a lot more than having stuff! Taria

Patti S wrote:

Patti S wrote: I like to

I definitely consider it extreme, in the utmost of vulgarity. My Deanna pup is treated with love and affection - I think I'm trying to make up for her early years of having been abused and neglected. However, I wouldn't leave money to her....I'd rather leave money to my children and gradnchildren provided that I have any (well, have children, but referring to the money and grandchildren). Deanna gets healthy food, the occassional treat (she's overweight so these are limited), and some serious brushing and fluffing time. We also have puppy time....where she gets so excited because of our playing that she runs around the yard and we end up playing tag. I suppose DH thinks it's pampering if he doesn't kick her out of our room when she farts (bad enough to wake the dead some nights, though no changes in food), but I just remind him that she's old and these things happen....I try not to point out the nights he has hot wings . She is allowed on one of the couches, but not the other one, and she knows it and LOVES to get on "her" couch when one of the cats is draped across the back.....is she spoiled? I don't think so, but definitely a loved pup.

Oh Val, that was a superly delightful read. You certainly do have a way with words. As I've said sometimes before - that was definitely an 'I wish I'd written that' moment. Thanks so much (especially the cat part, of course!) . In message , Val writes

I missed this the first time, but I'm certainly glad it was attached to Pat's post. I agree wholeheartedly with Pat, that was a terrific post. You could write short stories or essays professionally! I've read lesser quality pieces in our newspaper. Thanks for writing it.

Val, I'm going to print off your reply and keep it...... I just love it. Have you considered a job at The Seattle Times?

Patti in Seattle

No only didn't my mother leave money to her doggie, but it cost me $1,000 to go to Florida, rent and van and drive back with him. He was worth every penny. It's so nice to come home, even after being gone just a half hour and having someone thrilled to see me.

L>I love my animals, but I don't think I would ever buy such extravagances for

Linda PATCHogue, NY

So very glad that's working out well for you, Linda. . In message , WitchyStitcher writes

and do you notice he won't complain about your cooking? Taria

WitchyStitcher wrote:

My owner, Cricket, is the best mom. She lets me know when it's time to do things, such as going "by-by's" in the car, breakfast time, dinner time, snack time, potty time and play time. Without her i'd never know what time it is! the only time she doesnt like, is "i'll be back" time (home from work). But she lets me know that she's been busy when i get there, such as: the cushions of the couch are on the floor where they belong, the coverlet on my bed is in a nest just her size and her pillow/bed (from L.L.Bean) and personal blanket is still neat as a pin. Cricket gets good food, a warm house in winter, airconditioning in the summer, regular baths and grooming, Vet visits, and lots of love. Without her my life would be incomplete. She had her 13th birthday this year. Y'all can see her picture at our MySpace.

amy