I have decided that this year will be a time I begin to say more openly how I feel.  This may turn some off however; I do not say anything that does not come from my passions and my heart.  This is not a New Year’s resolution.  I have not done New Year’s resolutions since the year I chose to start smoking (yes, I may have been the only one to keep my resolution that year!); I quit a long time ago for those that are wondering.

So, in compliance with following my passion, I feel the need to speak out on all those surrendering their pets.  The news is full of stories where people are saying they can no longer afford them.  My question is, do you still have cable?  From what I understand (I can only go by what I hear because I have not watched TV since 1999, with the exception of the Presidential debates and on the day of 9-11-2001) cable costs about what it would take to feed a dog per month, possibly even more depending on the cable package and the dog’s size and needs. 

Think of all the benefits you receive from a pet vs. sitting in front of the “idiot box” as my father used to call it.  I have already talked about the health benefits in several articles; what about the health of the pet you surrender?  If shelters and rescue’s are full, the alternatives are not very healthy. 

Think of the ways you could save a few dollars here and there.  How about the latte you may buy every morning?  Do you eat out and could really pack a lunch?  There are many ways to cut back that could have little or no affect on your lifestyle and yet could have a tremendous impact on your wellbeing and the life of an animal. 

In closing, I am attaching a picture of my new addition Gretchen, a rescue pup we adopted just a few days ago; how anyone could abandon this sweetie is beyond my comprehension.  As you look in those big brown eyes, ask yourself if you have the ability to rescue a great dog or cat and let them know that there are still humans that care enough and want to give them love - they certainly have a lot of it to give us.

Here’s a picture of my newest baby, Gretchen- a rescue pup that rescued me as much as I her!

How could you not love that face!  Think of all the other eyes in shelters begging to be loved!

© January 2, 2009, Marie Boyum

P.S. 

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How many have once again decided to get into a better health routine this New Year?  Are your intentions to join a gym, buy exercise equipment, or diet?  What if you had a healthy option that was not only consistent but also helped you and a dog that may be destined to be “put down”?

It is a well-known fact that walking on a regular basis helps you gently exercise, lose weight and overall be happier due to getting out in nature and getting fresh (well, hopefully) air. Walking a dog is the best way I know to solve two issues at once. You make a dog’s life enjoyable; get exercise and bond for positive physical and emotional well-being. Research shows that having a pet lowers blood pressure, prevents depression and the list goes on and on.

Right now, rescue and dog shelter’s are at an all time high with dog’s that have been surrendered or abandoned. Reports say that it is because people are “cutting back on expenses.” If you were planning on a gym membership or piece of exercise equipment that could be the money you spend on saving a dog’s (and maybe your own) life. When you weigh out the health benefits and doctor bills that having a dog can help save you, the cost is very low to actually have a dog. Aren’t your life and the life of another sentient being worth a few dollars? If you look the money spent on lattes every morning at one Starbuck’s that money could save many a dog in a shelter. Could you consider releasing yourself from the extras in your life that add up to not only pounds but also dollars to save a life?

In my part of the country, we are getting dumped on with snow and bitter cold. Some say, “No way, I don’t want to go for a walk in that!” It is true that many days, I would prefer not to go out and probably have to admit I would not if it weren’t for my dog. As I tromp through the two feet of snow out back, I realize it is far more fun than any gluteus machine at the gym and productive for my dog as well. My legs, gluteus, heart, lungs and arms get a great workout and when I come in I’m refreshed and ready to do more than if I sat inside on my butt eating and drinking. When I am in that fresh (and yes, cold) air, I am invigorated and do not feel the need to eat as much; I’m getting more exercise than at the gym and my dog is now happy and contented for the day - you can’t get much better than that!

If cost is a factor right now, consider cooking brown rice and vegetables, leftover beef and chicken for your dog to add to the dog food; that way you can spread out the cost of a bag of food and still keep the dog eating healthy. There are always ways and I welcome any comments or questions as to how to help keep a dog in a healthy and happy home. Of course, being stressed and upset does affect your dog so, if you feel he or she could have a better home that may be an option but communication and possibly some creativity can help keep them with your family and prevent what may be an untimely death.

Whatever you decide, consider all the options and know your health is always better when you have loyal and giving dog by your side. Make 2009 your best and healthiest year yet and consider allowing a dog to have that privilege as well!

© December 28, 2008 Marie Boyum

This quick post is to wish every being a peaceful, safe and joyous holiday season!  

Soon, I hope to post new pictures of our added family member as I have been diligently searching to rescue a young dog to add to our family.  My Christmas wish is that another life is saved while our lives our enriched with another amazing being.  

May you and your family remember your blessings, share your love, and  enjoy all the holiday season has to offer!

Peace and love to you and yours,

Marie