I visted the Prince George SPCA (Northern Cariboo) today to get Maggie a licence. My heart aches whenever I see an animal without a home....I would do anything for my cats, Pumpkin and Magic, and of course our puppy Maggie.
The office was jam packed as soon as the doors opened. Surprisingly, many people were there to retreive, or confirm whether there dog or cat was picked up overnight and was in the pound section. There was one little old man...unshaven, dirty clothes, hunched over...appeared to have nothing more than the clothes on his back. He was looking for his little terrier...got out while he was napping or something like that. After viewing the kennels, he was successful in finding his beloved pup! However, because he did not have a licence, or a neuter certificate, his fine was almost $300 to retrieve is dog. He was standing almost in tears as he took out his credit card reluctantly to pay his fine and was given his dog and he was on his way.
The next owner was with a friend or family member...nice clothing, makeup, jewellery flashing...they too were looking for their dog that had escaped for what they said was the 3 time. And as much as they appeared to be worried to verify if their dog was there or not, when the clerk said it was...rather than pay the fine to take custody, the lady said "Can I surrender him?:...you could hear the gasps of the other customers waiting in this tiny waiting room...a beautiful husky dog - being "surrendered" all because the owner stated "this is not the first time he's escaped, and he's only gonna do it again, so keep him"!!!
So, who suffers here? Not the owner - who by my standards is a poor "parent" by letting the dog get away numerous times. Not providing shelter and safety of a beautiful helpness animal - but just like that - she gave up her rights. I wonder if she would do the same with children, if she had any? I'm sure from her appearance, that it wasn't a matter of being able to afford the fines, but more not having the patience and time to take training lessons, and spend time with the pet that she brought into her life. I'm sure the dog would choose another home if it had a say.
I know ironicly, I am basing both my thoughts about these people on looks...perhaps the poor little unkept man is a millionaire, and this well dressed healthy looking lady is in debt up to her eyeballs...but I can't imagine just walking out of there without your pet - and I'm sure the dog sensed she was there, and was probably happy to hear her voice, and then disappointed to see her back go out that door.
I can only imagine the stress and emotions with adopting a child...my heart goes out to all those babies looking for homes and praying a family will come take them. Whether a child or pet, they didn't ask to be brought into this world...take the responsibility of their care if you decide to adopt.....xo
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