| When we picked Christopher up from his previous owner, she offered to give us
his chain.
Christopher, who was not yet a year old, had been chained to a tree most of his
life. The chain was hardly long enough to allow him to enter the crate that
served as his "shelter." It wouldn't have mattered anyway as the crate was too
small to be of much use to him. His water bowl was a coffee can, but at least
he did have water. And his food was thrown on the ground near the tree. At
least he did have some food...
Christopher was a gift: a gift given to some people who really didn't want a
dog. Oh, he was cute as a puppy, but puppies take a lot of time and need lots
of attention. Since he was not allowed to become a part of the family, he found
himself tied to a tree in the back part of the trailer house yard.
If you are thinking of giving an animal as a gift, consider asking the
recipient of the gift to participate in the decision to acquire a pet, and
then, make them a part of the "selection." A pet is a companion for life. That
companion will look to you for all things: food, shelter, comfort, and love.
Not only do you choose the animal, he or she must choose YOU.
Remember Christopher, chained to a tree as far away from his human companions as
they could put him. Think of his confusion and loneliness. And then, make
your
decision the right one.
Christopher has found a new family. He is taking puppy obedience classes and he
is learning to play. He has been given a second chance to have a happy life by
owners who really, really want him. |
