I get so depressed sometimes. I worked for years with homeless animals, and

[Mike 03]

as any of you who have worked at animal shelters know, it is very very painful. But now that Obama has chosen a dog, there are a bunch of self righteous threads about how many dogs and cats are killed every year (month/day).

Like there is something he can do about it, or that a lecture is going to change anything.

It's horrible to see helpless dogs and cats killed for no reason other than we can't find homes for them.

God, if you knew some of the stories I have seen, you would never joke or make light of these animals who end up in shelters. These dogs are treasures. And six to eight out of ten times I had to sit with them as they were killed because we could not find homes for them.

President Obama has saved one, but it is up to us to save the rest. If we can.

Sorry, just had to vent...

[csziggy]

1. It's OK, at least some pets are being adopted

:hug:

[RandomThoughts]

2. Thank you for sharing that.

And in some way, I want to say thanks for being with them to the end.

It is more then many could do.

[old mark]

3. Mike, I worked in a mental hospital, in a drug rehab for kids, and

as a drug and alcohol counselor.
I could NEVER do what you did - I could not stand it.
I am thankful there are caring people who can and do every day.
Every dog I have ever had came from a shelter.Not much, but it is the best I can do.

mark

[LostInAnomie]

4. I used to volunteer at the local shelter.

I had to stop after a while because I couldn't take watching those loving creatures be put to sleep anymore.

[Flaxbee]

5. What you have done is amazing, and I'm so glad someone

caring was with so many of those animals. I think I'd have a complete breakdown if I had to do what you did, and all I can say is thank you from the bottom of my heart for your work. Thank you thank you thank you.

[Critters2]

6. He didn't save one. Kennedy purchased one for him. Not at all

the same thing. I was the founding secretary of a humane society shelter, and fostered kittens for it. All 4 of my pets are rescues or shelter pets. I will never purchase a pet from a breeder. And, yes, I'm disappointed that the president did. I think he missed an opportunity to set an example and help countless pets in the process. I say this as someone who has been involved in decisions to euthanize pets no one wanted. I'm disappointed.

[Jeep789]

7. Give the guy a friggen break

The dog was returned and given to him by Kennedy as I understand it. Give him a chance to learn about loving a pet and perhaps the next time he will adopt one. Yes, what is done to unwanted pets is horrible. How do you get people to realize that? Get them a pet. Step one accomplished.