Town Up in Arms over Feral Horse Debate
An article from the Associated Press describes an escalating issue involving the feral horses in Placitas, New Mexico. The roaming horses have been a defining characteristic of the town for years- but, now, their growing population is posing serious problems. The horses are consuming local vegetation in a way that threatens to disrupt the desert ecosystem amidst a drought.
To further complicate the situation- federal officials don't consider the horses to be wild; both state and federal courts classify them as livestock. The officials, the article states, believe that the horses have been recently abandoned from previous owners- a growing practice in light of economic strains. The state has attempted to round up the horses in the past- but the round-ups are strongly opposed by volunteers.
Navy Veteran Rides Motorcycle Cross-Country for Shelter Pets
Once a member of the United States Marine Corps, Anthony Ungaro is now raising awareness for animal shelters across the nation. His trek began on July 28 in New York City and ended in Los Angeles with the delivery of donations from the New York based charity, Rock & Rawhide. The Pasadena Humane Society and SPCA welcomed him and Rock & Rawhide’s donation of treats, toys, and supplies.
According to Pasadena Star News, Ungaro's ride was largely inspired by his own experience with adopting a shelter dog. After touring Iraq in 2004, when Ungaro returned to civilian life he struggled with Posttraumatic stress disorder. After doing research on the subject, Ungaro decided to adopt an Old Family Red Nose Pit Bull, Donnie, who has helped him greatly.
Modern-Day Lassie Rescues 3-Year Old Girl
Karina Chikitova and her dog left their native village in pursuit of the girl’s father, Rodion, when the two wound up lost in the Siberian forest. There, the girl survived by eating wild berries and drinking river water for 11 days. A search party sent by the village had all but given up hope when the dog found the search party and led them to Karina.
When found, Karina appeared to be in good health and was subsequently sent to the hospital to confirm her healthy state. According to GrindTV, the forest is inhabited by bears and wolves and reaches a temperature of nearly 5 °C each night; her astounding survival has thus earned her the title of "the miracle girl" in The Siberian Times.
The Pawsitively Pets Blog Shows Senior Dogs Some Love
Everyone loves puppies and kittens- but as pets grow older, many pet owners lose interest. Real animal lovers know that dogs and cats get better with age; and, Anne Staub of Pawsitively Pets knows why. Reflecting on her relationship with her own senior dog, she enumerates 4 reasons that senior dogs are awesome.
In addition to honoring Shiner, the 11 year-old pit bull, the post also gives shout outs to Sugar the Golden Retriever for her 13th Barkday. It also reminds those considering pet adoption that older dogs make great pets and that if you’re looking for a dog. We encourage you check out the post yourself to see exactly why senior dogs are absolutely awesome!
Did we miss anything this week that you thought was a big deal? Let us know what you think of this weekly recap in the comments section below!