Yesterday I attended the Quakertown Vet Clinic’s (QVC) Pet Fair. It was a perfect day for this event which was held outside. I wanted to meet John Grogan- author of Marley and Me. I had seen the movie and read the book. It is a true story about John and Jenny Grogan’s rambuntcious dog who “taught them what really matters in life”.
After meeting John, a laid-back, personable man, he proceeded to tell me he only has one dog since lyme disease claimed his other dog’s life a few months ago.
Did you know PA has the distinction of having the highest number of lyme cases in the nation among people? A worker from QVC informed me of this tidbit of information. I don’t know where PA stands with lyme disease cases and pets but the disease is rampant. Both of my dogs have tested positive for it. Shadow is the one who has presented symptoms from time to time over the years.
Lyme disease is rampant in our area and the Quakertown area, let alone the entire Keystone state. Mr. Grogan told me that his dog’s kidneys began to shut down and there was no way of saving him. Lyme disease is a serious threat to people and pets. It is a disease not to be taken lightly. The consequences are all to real. I’ve seen the effects with Shadow, let alone people I know.
Getting back to the Pet Fair- there were many vendors. If you click on the above picture, it will give you an idea of those attending. So many great rescues were there. I couldn’t stop and talk to each one but I did talk to quite a few people about their organizations.
I learned that greyhound puppies that aren’t used for the race track are killed by being dumped where sharks inhibit the waters. Linda from Linda Ann’s Greyhound Rescue told me this. These greyhounds weren’t “good enough” for the owners. Other means of killing them is electrocution. I had known greyhounds were shot to death. I felt as if I was listening to Michael Vick’s Bad Newz Kennels stories. Unreal! Unbelievable! And sickening! What is wrong with people?
I also met two beautiful greyhounds. Jessie – a male rescued two weeks ago from a racetrack that closed down in Alabama. YAY! And Zoey- a gentle,spirited girl.
There was the Blind Dog Rescue that does a tremendous job of saving animals that may be entirely blind or have severe vision impairment to a one-eye missing pet. Check them out!
Furry Feet Rescue was near the entrance and I couldn’t walk away from their stand without buying two magnets to let the world know to spay and neuter your pet! If you see their stand at an event, just know they practically have any type of magnet you want! The ladies were a great help to me. Thanks, ladies!
Another great organization- the Cat Shack- was among the vendors. On their table I found a brochure that caught my attention. “Seniors for Seniors” it stated. This is a foster program for senior citizens opening up their homes to well-behaved , mature cats. The Cat Shack will provide all expenses. All a senior has to do is provide fresh water, a clean litterbox and lots of love!
So many rescues. Too many to mention. But this I must say. I met some very nice people who commit their lives to saving the lives of so many unwanted and homeless animals. I am sincerely in awe of their dedication and hard work. Without them, so many more animals would be dead. I just stood there and felt overwhelmed because this vicious cycle never seems to end. Too many animals need to be rescued and not enough homes or people willing to take responsibility nor take their commitment to their pets seriously. I am but one person trying to do my part as well.
So the vicious cycle continues.