thoughts on the news of the day: doggy day care

hmmm…..

                OK, I admit it, I send my dog to doggie day care.  She stays at home by herself for long periods of time while I am at work, so to entertain her, she goes to Petpaloosa once or twice a week.  In my home town, it’s not actually that much of a luxury because there are so many pet owners, and so many options to choose from.  And besides that, it’s just not that expensive.

                But an article in the New York Times today says that it has gotten popular and is not so cheap in New York City.  Doggie Day Care there starts with a $200 membership that allows you to take your dog when you choose.  That’s just for starters, there are still daily or monthly fees and additional charges for special kennels, beds and so on … There’s one place that has a no bark rule.  Apparently they have magicians who are able to train dogs not to bark.  Yeah, right, like that would work on my Roxie! 

                There are stories galore about rich owners who indulge their pets.  Expensive beds, clothes and even rhinestone sweaters adorn the lucky animals.  On the other end of the spectrum, there are also agencies who try their best to give attention to dogs who are mistreated and even abused. 

                In the end, they are all God’s creatures, just like us.  We don’t need special pampering or treats or expensive grooming; but we don’t deserve mistreatment or abuse.  So, the lessons go on, we learn them from our pets, we and learn them from our world.  

                hmmm…..