Quote:
Originally Posted by PennBF
When I was in school my parents took in children that were in need. They did not charge anyone for their care but instead we were told (there were 4 of us kids) that we were to treat them as our family. We had as many as 3 kids at a time and some sent us birthday cards and Christmas cards signed as your brother. My parents were successful in getting a number of them into "Boys Town" which was a terrific place as they sent two reps to pick them up but first they took them to the best clothing stores in town, completely outfitted them as no child went into Boys Town with their head hung low. My point is that maybe some would want to think of the many homeless children and their needs when spending loads of money on a pet. It doesn't mean to not have a pet but to maybe help those in desperate need and keep things in balance in life. We never had a disappointment with all of the children.  |
I think you will find that many pet owners with disposable income volunteer/donate in many ways. My big thing has always supporting organizations that fight hunger, through work and donations. Others use their skills in education, helping the disabled, etc. It's a wonderful thing your parents did, and it obviously set a great example to you and your siblings.
I need a pet in my life. I have never been without a pet, ever. It's not a farm animal, and its only job is to be my and my spouse's companion. I will always have a pet in my life, and I will support that pet financially in whatever way I can. I will not dress him up, and I try (but mostly fail) not to anthropomorphize him.
I'm thankful that we have the means in our family to work/donate/support people and children in need, our own pet, our foster pets, and animal shelters. In that order.
And I will take our dog wherever it's permitted to do so, if I feel it would be safe for him and something he would enjoy doing. He's 85 pounds and gets hot easily, so that doesn't happen too often. But I will oppose anyone, no matter how much I appreciate that person, who gripes about it. If they're that opposed, they should work to change the rules of TV or the pet laws.
I know,
. I think I'm done!