Red tape and Adoption

This is Lulu. She is an active little Chihuahua that lives downstairs. My neighbors have been wanting to adopt another dog for some time now - to keep LuLu company since her friend Baxter would be moving and not coming to visit as often. She was very timid and shy when she first came home, but very quickly fell into the role of the dominant female - not afraid to put Gaston in line when he misbehaved. And we all know when he is outside that is often. He loves to protect me, but Lulu puts him in his place.

Anyway - that is not what I wanted to talk about. I did not adopt my dogs - we got them both from the breeder. It is very interesting tho what you have to go thru TO adopt a dog nowdays. I get the impression it is easier to get a foster child and collect money in the process than it is to adopt a pet.

Helen - Lulu's mom - found a lovely little guy online thru a "service" and after contacting them numerous times came to find out that they could not adopt the little fellow. Why? Does she have a record of Dog abuse? (well I do know she has a severe adversion to squirels). The web site goes on to say that - and I quote - Only families with excellent vet references and an installed fenced yard (please do not apply if you do not have a secure traditional or professionally installed electric fenced area in which a dog can safely play without getting out) need apply. That being said us poor Apartment dwellers are screwed.

What these well-meaning people don't understand is that having a fenced in back yard only insures that the dog will have a place to be - most of his days and lots of evenings - especially if you put a little house out there for him. A fenced in yard insures that the dog will hardly EVER get walked. My daughter lives in a community of dog owners and has seen one actually out on a walk.

Anyway - Helen and Crystal found the most adorable little guy and it wasn't required that they have a fenced in yard - or have to have someone at home full time (another strange requirement I couldn't follow). The only requirement was that they want him - and give him lots of love and attention. I absolutely know that he will be getting all of that - and more!

So - Meet Dudley.......