In Italy, they make shoelaces out of dogs.
This little tidbit is shared by Father-in-law, 89, over breakfast at his house Friday.
I do not believe that, I tell him, as I pour my coffee. Just because you say it with authority doesn't make it so.
He shrugs, and closes the newspaper, which I'd mistakenly shared with him. In it, I'd shared with readers Dog's travails at the animal hospital.
What Father-in-law cannot believe is that his son and I took Dog to an emergency room veterinarian and forked over $429. Another $8 at the drugstore for Pepcid.
The antacid was prescribed for Dog, but I consider taking some as I explain to Father-in-law what about this particular dog is so special that she warrants our dipping deep into our checkbook.
"Crazy," he sayswhen I tell him Dog is like family. More likeable than some other family members, too.
Dog never would be allowed in his kitchen.
Dog sleeps with Husband and me. I cook for her. I bathe her in the same bathtub in which I used to bathe the kids, being careful the water temperature is just comfortably warm.
Father-in-law grimaces at this and goes back to his egg and bacon. He's wondering where he went wrong with Husband, I'm sure.
Born in the United States, but raised in a village in northern Italy, Father-in-law sees dogs as farm apparatus to be stored outdoors.
A dog owner in his day would feed and water the dog, but he would not (NOT EVER, unless he'd lost his mind) give it a bubble bath, feed it cookies or haul it off to a doctor's office, he shares.
I tell Father-in-law, as I drop a slice of bread into the toaster, I am not the only one who thinks of my dog as a furry kid. These days, lots of sane people do.
And to strengthen my argument, I point out that his granddaughter while living in Italy right out of college, worked for a woman who brought a little French bulldog to her restaurant every day. It was allowed to sleep under the piano when it tried of greeting guests. Daughter used to send me photos of that pampered pooch from Rome.
No one in modern Italy would suggest making shoelaces out of that animal, I tell Father-in-law, who holds his hand to his ear and pretends, as he often does, not to hear me.
I will not share with him the words of readers who emailed or stopped me in the office and on the street to share some costly medical incident involving a beloved pet. Some were horror stories, some sad, others shared happy endings.
Like Anthony of Bristol Township, who paid for multiple cancer surgeries and chemo for the family greyhound, 11. The results have been positive. Cancer not spreading. Five months later, the dog seems well.
"I will not say the total cost for everything so far but suffice it to say we have invested many thousands. I realize many would look at what we have spent and see it as excessive. Have I reached the expenditure limit? Looking into the eyes of my wife and dog I would have to say no," Anthony said.
Others note that even the sums for basic care are substantial.
"I, too, look at our dogs as an extension of our family," wrote Carolyn of Lower Makefield.
"We have spent thousands over the years, taking care of them ----- groomer, vet bills, special food when necessary, and medications. Our dog has terrible allergies, so I have to give him allergy meds starting in September all the way till the frost kills whatever the heck is making him itch like a fiend. That adds up quickly. But, thank goodness, we can afford it. I have had many discussions with the vet about how best to take care of the dogs without going broke ......... I do simple things like making sure vaccinations are scheduled with their annual exams, so we don't get him with extra visits."
Bottom line for me? Families who are considering a pet, really must be conscious of the potential cost associalted with caring for a precious, unpredictable life.
Bottom line for Father-in-law? You don't want to know. I pretended not to hear him.
Thursday, May 8, 2014
F. Y. I.
Celebrate This
Today is No Homework Day.
Quotable
by James A. Garfield, 20th U.S. president (1831-1881)
"I am trying to do two things: dare to be a radical and not a fool, which is a matter of no small difficulty."
Love Below
Seahorses are monogamous and mate for life.
Lore of Old
In the 19th century, English men avoided eating salads if they wanted to start a family since lettuce was considered a "sterile" plant.
Screen Turn
Actor Richard Gere was considered for the role of John McClane, the part that ultimately went to Bruce Wills, in "Die Hard."
Still on the Books
In Fargo, North Dakota, one may be jailed for wearing a hat while dancing.
Today is No Homework Day.
Quotable
by James A. Garfield, 20th U.S. president (1831-1881)
"I am trying to do two things: dare to be a radical and not a fool, which is a matter of no small difficulty."
Love Below
Seahorses are monogamous and mate for life.
Lore of Old
In the 19th century, English men avoided eating salads if they wanted to start a family since lettuce was considered a "sterile" plant.
Screen Turn
Actor Richard Gere was considered for the role of John McClane, the part that ultimately went to Bruce Wills, in "Die Hard."
Still on the Books
In Fargo, North Dakota, one may be jailed for wearing a hat while dancing.
Tuesday, May 6, 2014
Earthweek: A Diary of the Planet (May 2, 2014)
Trashing the Deep
Litter from modern civilization has become so pervasive that scientists conducting the first-ever study of its undersea distribution couldn't find any place, including in some of the deepest oceans, where it didn't exist. Using video from underwater drones and samples dredged off the seabed, researchers from 16 European organizations say they found rubbish everywhere from the Mediterranean to the mid-Atlantic ridge, about 1,250 miles from land. Plastic was the most common type of litter found, with items associated with fishing coming in second. But an extensive distribution of glass, metal, wood, paper and cardboard was also observed. Writing in the journal PLoS ONE, the researchers said the densest accumulations of litter were found in deep underwater canyons. "Submarine canyons form the main connection between shallow coastal waters and the deep sea," said mapping team leader Veerle Huvenne. "Canyons that are located close to major coastal towns and cities.......can funnel litter straight to water depths of 4,500 meters (14,800 feet) or more." He added that the accumulation of marine litter is now a worldwide problem.
Volcanic Illness
Ongoing eruptions of Peru's Ubinas volcano produced such a high volume of ash falling over nearby villages that some people were reported suffering from conjunctivitis. The ailment was said to be caused by eye irritation from the caustic debris. El Comercio reports that the affected residents were prescribed eye drops for use throughout the day. The eruptions have prompted the evacuation of nearly 30,000 head of livestock from nearby pastures. Ash also has damaged more than 2,000 acres of crops.
Nuclear Endurance
Some species of birds living in the Chemobyl nuclear disaster zone appear to be thriving, and maybe even benefiting, from long-term exposure to radiation. Since the 1990s, researchers have captured and examined 16 different bird species and measured radiation levels, oxidative stress and DNA damage. They also checked levels of pigments in the feathers, finding that birds with the most red pigments had the most difficulty coping with radiation. The findings were published in the British Ecological Society's journal Functional Ecology. The Chemobyl disaster occurred just over 28 years ago in northern Ukraine, contaminating a wide area of Europe and forcing authorities to establish an exclusion zone around the wrecked nuclear plant. But it has also provided a working laboratory for scientists to study how long-term radiation affects wild animals and plants.
Tropical Cyclone
Typhoon Tapah brought high surf and occasionally gusty winds to Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands as it passed well to the east of the archipelago. Tapah achieved typhoon (hurricane) strength for only a brief period of time to the northeast of Saipan, then dissipated over the cooler waters of the North Pacific.
Earthquakes
Residents of the South Pacific island nation of Tonga reported a violent jolt from a 6.2 magnitude undersea quake located 45 miles northeast of the capital Nuku'alofa. The shaking knocked items off shelves and sent people fleeing for higher ground in fear of a tsunami, but there were no reported changes in sea level.
* Earth movements were also felt near South Australia's Flinders Ranges, around the Greek capital of Athens and in central Oklahoma.
Cosmic Hazard
Climbers venturing to the summit of Mount Everest and back are exposed to a dose of cosmic radiation five times higher than that received by British nuclear power plant workers each year, according to new research. In a report published by the Society for Radiological Protection, measurements gathered by mountaineer Bob Kerr indicate the dose received from an Everest ascent brings a 1-in-10,000 risk of developing a fatal cancer later in life. But since Sherpa guides climb Everest many times during their lives, their exposure is likely to be far greater. Kerr concludes that most guides and climbers are probably unaware of the radiation exposure they receive on the world's highest peak.
Desperate Measures
The past winter, dominated by the polar vortex, was so harsh that it drove New York City rats to eat trees to survive, according to a U.S. Forest Service scientist. "With the deep snow and the cold winter, probably they didn't have access to the normal food supply and it was a lot colder this winter," research ecologist Rich Hallett told WNYC. "So they went after the trees." The tenacious rodents gnawed through the bark to get to a sugary layer for nourishment and energy. But experts warn that some of the coldest winter weather on record is not likely to have made a significant dent in the plucky rat population.
Litter from modern civilization has become so pervasive that scientists conducting the first-ever study of its undersea distribution couldn't find any place, including in some of the deepest oceans, where it didn't exist. Using video from underwater drones and samples dredged off the seabed, researchers from 16 European organizations say they found rubbish everywhere from the Mediterranean to the mid-Atlantic ridge, about 1,250 miles from land. Plastic was the most common type of litter found, with items associated with fishing coming in second. But an extensive distribution of glass, metal, wood, paper and cardboard was also observed. Writing in the journal PLoS ONE, the researchers said the densest accumulations of litter were found in deep underwater canyons. "Submarine canyons form the main connection between shallow coastal waters and the deep sea," said mapping team leader Veerle Huvenne. "Canyons that are located close to major coastal towns and cities.......can funnel litter straight to water depths of 4,500 meters (14,800 feet) or more." He added that the accumulation of marine litter is now a worldwide problem.
Volcanic Illness
Ongoing eruptions of Peru's Ubinas volcano produced such a high volume of ash falling over nearby villages that some people were reported suffering from conjunctivitis. The ailment was said to be caused by eye irritation from the caustic debris. El Comercio reports that the affected residents were prescribed eye drops for use throughout the day. The eruptions have prompted the evacuation of nearly 30,000 head of livestock from nearby pastures. Ash also has damaged more than 2,000 acres of crops.
Nuclear Endurance
Some species of birds living in the Chemobyl nuclear disaster zone appear to be thriving, and maybe even benefiting, from long-term exposure to radiation. Since the 1990s, researchers have captured and examined 16 different bird species and measured radiation levels, oxidative stress and DNA damage. They also checked levels of pigments in the feathers, finding that birds with the most red pigments had the most difficulty coping with radiation. The findings were published in the British Ecological Society's journal Functional Ecology. The Chemobyl disaster occurred just over 28 years ago in northern Ukraine, contaminating a wide area of Europe and forcing authorities to establish an exclusion zone around the wrecked nuclear plant. But it has also provided a working laboratory for scientists to study how long-term radiation affects wild animals and plants.
Tropical Cyclone
Typhoon Tapah brought high surf and occasionally gusty winds to Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands as it passed well to the east of the archipelago. Tapah achieved typhoon (hurricane) strength for only a brief period of time to the northeast of Saipan, then dissipated over the cooler waters of the North Pacific.
Earthquakes
Residents of the South Pacific island nation of Tonga reported a violent jolt from a 6.2 magnitude undersea quake located 45 miles northeast of the capital Nuku'alofa. The shaking knocked items off shelves and sent people fleeing for higher ground in fear of a tsunami, but there were no reported changes in sea level.
* Earth movements were also felt near South Australia's Flinders Ranges, around the Greek capital of Athens and in central Oklahoma.
Cosmic Hazard
Climbers venturing to the summit of Mount Everest and back are exposed to a dose of cosmic radiation five times higher than that received by British nuclear power plant workers each year, according to new research. In a report published by the Society for Radiological Protection, measurements gathered by mountaineer Bob Kerr indicate the dose received from an Everest ascent brings a 1-in-10,000 risk of developing a fatal cancer later in life. But since Sherpa guides climb Everest many times during their lives, their exposure is likely to be far greater. Kerr concludes that most guides and climbers are probably unaware of the radiation exposure they receive on the world's highest peak.
Desperate Measures
The past winter, dominated by the polar vortex, was so harsh that it drove New York City rats to eat trees to survive, according to a U.S. Forest Service scientist. "With the deep snow and the cold winter, probably they didn't have access to the normal food supply and it was a lot colder this winter," research ecologist Rich Hallett told WNYC. "So they went after the trees." The tenacious rodents gnawed through the bark to get to a sugary layer for nourishment and energy. But experts warn that some of the coldest winter weather on record is not likely to have made a significant dent in the plucky rat population.
Question & Answer
Are Catholics required to spread the Gospel?
Yes, Pope Francis has said it is the responsibility of every Catholic to spread the Gospel. And Jesus said, "Go into allthe world and preach the gospel to the whole creation" (Mark 16:15). While not all have the gift of preaching, there are other ways to share the Good News.
Social media. New media can be a great evangelization tool. We can post Gospel verses, inspiring stories of others who live virtuous lives, encouragement for friends. What we don't do can also be inspiring --- choosing not to gossip or brag, for example.
Be a friend. Most people who leave a church say it's because they don't feel connected. Try welcoming newcomers to your church or anywhere, for that matter ---- neighborhood or workplace --- and let your faith show as the friendship grows.
Lend a book. Share something you have read that moved you. Studies show that Catholics who left the Church often read their way back. Often non-Catholics enter the Church the same way.
Yes, Pope Francis has said it is the responsibility of every Catholic to spread the Gospel. And Jesus said, "Go into allthe world and preach the gospel to the whole creation" (Mark 16:15). While not all have the gift of preaching, there are other ways to share the Good News.
Social media. New media can be a great evangelization tool. We can post Gospel verses, inspiring stories of others who live virtuous lives, encouragement for friends. What we don't do can also be inspiring --- choosing not to gossip or brag, for example.
Be a friend. Most people who leave a church say it's because they don't feel connected. Try welcoming newcomers to your church or anywhere, for that matter ---- neighborhood or workplace --- and let your faith show as the friendship grows.
Lend a book. Share something you have read that moved you. Studies show that Catholics who left the Church often read their way back. Often non-Catholics enter the Church the same way.
Feast & Celebrations
In May we celebrate mothers and honor the mother of all, the Blessed Virgin Mary. We can grow closer to Mary by praying the Rosary, honoring her feasts, and praising her to others.
May 1 - St. Joseph the Worker (1st century).
Entrusted with the care of the Blessed Mother and Jesus, Joseph was a carpenter dedicated to his family and obedient to God.
May 13 - Our Lady of Fatima (1917).
The Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to three children near Fatima, Portugal. Mary asked the children to pray the rosary for world peace, for the end of World War I, for sinners and for the conversion of Russia.
May 22 - St. Rita of Cascia (1457).
Unwillingly married off to a cruel husband at the age of twelve, St. Rita spent eighteen unhappy years before being widowed. She became an Augustinian nun known for her devotion to prayer and charity.
May 29 - Ascension of the Lord
This solemnity marks the completion of Jesus' mission of salvation and his triumphant entry into Heaven by his own power.
Note: In some dioceses, observance has been moved to the following Sunday.
May 1 - St. Joseph the Worker (1st century).
Entrusted with the care of the Blessed Mother and Jesus, Joseph was a carpenter dedicated to his family and obedient to God.
May 13 - Our Lady of Fatima (1917).
The Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to three children near Fatima, Portugal. Mary asked the children to pray the rosary for world peace, for the end of World War I, for sinners and for the conversion of Russia.
May 22 - St. Rita of Cascia (1457).
Unwillingly married off to a cruel husband at the age of twelve, St. Rita spent eighteen unhappy years before being widowed. She became an Augustinian nun known for her devotion to prayer and charity.
May 29 - Ascension of the Lord
This solemnity marks the completion of Jesus' mission of salvation and his triumphant entry into Heaven by his own power.
Note: In some dioceses, observance has been moved to the following Sunday.
From Scripture
John 14:15-21; I will not leave you.
In this, one of his farewell speeches to his disciples, Jesus laid the foundation for them to become his Church. He was preparing the Apostles to become the people who carried him to the rest of the world.
Pope Francis said, "It is not easy to follow Jesus closely, because the path he chooses is the way of the Cross." Jesus knew that what he asks of his followers is difficult without him there as a guide, so he made two powerful promises to us.
First - he promised to send as Advocate --- the Holy Spirit --- who would always be with us. The gift of the Holy Spirit would be poured out on all his followers and help us to see the truth of God's love for us.
Second - he promised that he wouldn't leave us even though he was going away. When we are absorbed by the world, we can't "see" Jesus because we are too focused on ourselves.
Yet, when we live our love for God by obeying his commandments and loving others, we show Jesus to the world.
In this, one of his farewell speeches to his disciples, Jesus laid the foundation for them to become his Church. He was preparing the Apostles to become the people who carried him to the rest of the world.
Pope Francis said, "It is not easy to follow Jesus closely, because the path he chooses is the way of the Cross." Jesus knew that what he asks of his followers is difficult without him there as a guide, so he made two powerful promises to us.
First - he promised to send as Advocate --- the Holy Spirit --- who would always be with us. The gift of the Holy Spirit would be poured out on all his followers and help us to see the truth of God's love for us.
Second - he promised that he wouldn't leave us even though he was going away. When we are absorbed by the world, we can't "see" Jesus because we are too focused on ourselves.
Yet, when we live our love for God by obeying his commandments and loving others, we show Jesus to the world.
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