Laurel Hunt Books

I have a friend who is struggling with the loss of her beloved dog. She wants to adopt another dog, but she is afraid that it’s too soon, that she is being disloyal or dishonoring to the dog she lost.  A veterinarian I know said once, “I encourage my clients to adopt again as soon as possible. The love has to go somewhere.” How true! The following  reflection echos the same sentiment. It is by Kent C. Greenough, from the wonderful book Animal Blessings: Prayers and Poems Celebrating Our Pets, edited by June Cotner (reprinted by permission). (more…)

Just the other day I filled in my Census form and mailed it back. I noticed they did not ask about dogs in the household – I guess the folks in Washington don’t get it that dogs are family, too. But, to be sure those important family members are counted, the folks at Mars, makers of Pedigree, have created an online census for mutts. Note that it is only counting mixed breeds; not sure of the logic behind that but maybe they will do a separate count of purebreds? It’s a quick and easy survey, and it will be interesting to see the results! Dogs Rule, as they say!

Here is a heartwarming story from the most recent edition of the Springer Rescue newsletter about a down on his luck Springer spaniel. Found wandering the streets with a rusty chain collar hanging from his neck, the dirty and hungry spaniel was picked up by Animal Control. Although the dog’s owner was contacted several times, he was not claimed. He was assigned to a pen in the back of the shelter because “nobody would want him.” Fortunately, Animal Control called Springer Rescue, and a caring volunteer “sprung” him. She recognized a “diamond in the rough” in this little guy, who she named Prancer. He was smart, playful and had a strong drive to retrieve toys, so she thought he might be suitable for Search and Rescue work. Then she learned of a police department looking for a new narcotics-sniffing dog. Prancer easily passed the screening test, showing an aptitude for scent detection, and is now a working member of the police force in Dekalb County, Georgia. He is now known as “Officer Rusty.” I love these stories of “throwaway dogs” who are making a difference, because someone gave them a second chance!

Not long ago I was asked by a hospice social worker to arrange for a client’s beloved poodle to be groomed. Unfortunately before I could make arrangements to pick up Cindy and have her groomed, the client had to be hospitalized, where he passed away. Fortunately, Cindy was adopted by a family member. However, I know many pets are not as fortunate when their human passes away, and they end up in a shelter. I recently discovered an organization in Colorado, Safe Place for Pets, whose mission is to find forever homes for pets of terminally ill people. According to their web site, they “strive to provide peace to those leaving this world by assuring that a beloved pet will continue to be safe, treasured, and loved. To some it is what matters most.” The web site has a downloadable form on which you can record your wishes for your pet’s future as part of your estate planning. The web site also has wonderful pets for adoption! I’m sure this type of organization is needed in every community. Thanks to the wonderful folks at Safe Place who place these beloved pets in new homes.

As I look outside on the latest snowfall, I enjoy dreaming of spring and outdoor fun. The walk-a-thon season is almost upon us! Here is a cause that is dear to my heart, as I have lost four beloved dogs to cancer. The Morris Animal Foundation, which sponsors research in many areas of animal health including cancer, is planning K9 Cancer Walks to raise research money. This year, you can participate virtually! What Is a K9 Cancer Walk? (more…)