A month or so ago, I discovered a poor little pup locked up in a dirty kennel inside the small apartment behind mine (read the full story here http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/8326741/pet_detector.html?cat=72). It has been difficult to hear the lil’ pup cry from the other side of the wall knowing what I now know aand after hearing things from animal control like, “It’s okay for people to keep their dogs kenneled as long aas they can physically turn around . . . “! Clearly, there are limitations they way the law is written, but I doubt if that should be interpreted to the public that “it is okay”.
One afternoon, I heard the puppy crying and I saw cars parked outside the apartment, so I went over and knocked. A young twenty-something couple answered the door and seemed a bit surprised that I came to check on the dog! I asked to see the dog and see his kennel and he did not hesitate to invite me in. To my surprise and delight, the puppy was not in the kennel and came bounding out from the other room. He had a nice short haircut, much improved from the shaggy coat I saw before! They admitted to learning a lesson from animal control agents who discussed the importance of cleaning the kennel and grooming. The kennel still appeared dirty to me, dried up dog poop scattered around, but it was nowhere near the horrific condition I observed the month before.
I was also delighted to hear the kids say that they love thier animal and they want him. My imagination had gone wild with visions of a terribly neglected, unwanted pup who was just steps away from me, yet out of reach! I now turned and walked home with a smile on my face, a glimer of hope in my heart and I instantly went inside and hugged my pups!
Thank you readers for your attention and interest in this story! Pet Detector has really struck a chord with me and I feel validated and supported by readers who obviously have the same love for animals and will stand, speak, knock or make the call whenever they feel an animal is in need! As a Mental Health Professional, I say bravo, and extend these advocacies to children, elders, or even yourself when you see or sense abuse! Your actions can make a difference!
To take action and do good on behalf of animals, visit the PETA webiste http://www.peta.org/.