Keeping Our Eyes Open

There are a lot of sites out there that concentrate on the darker side of humanity and its treatment of animals. Because of this, I generally don't post tragic articles on pets and add to the sensationalism that we are all too afflicted with these days. The exception is when I believe there's a message that needs to be transmitted. Today is one of those posts.

In Texas, a puppy mill with 246 dogs, mostly Pomeranians, Boston Terriers, and Jack Russell Terriers, has been shut down after finding severely malnourished, diseased dogs in need of emergency vet care. What's the kicker in this story is that the County Sheriff believes the operation had been going on for years.

Years? Why?

Until recently, the property had warning signs at the edge of the property not to trespass. But rescuers reported the foul odor of the tragedy before actually seeing it, and added that the trees hiding the property didn't mask the sounds of whimpering and barking.

From this report, I wonder how many neighbors in this rural area knew what was going on but looked the other way. Yes, I'm all for privacy and letting folks live as they see best, but when it involves abuse, that privilege is no longer valid. Here's the lesson for us: we cannot turn a blind eye when we become aware of this kind of suffering. We all need to keep our eyes open and reach out to those who cannot do so for themselves. Is there any reason to discuss this any further? I hope not.