12/12/2019
Several weeks ago it was announced that Michael Vick has been selected as one of four legendary captains for the NFL Pro Bowl and people are losing their minds. Numerous petitions have been started with signatures by hundreds of thousands of people in protest the decision.
With all of the new stories circulating, Vick’s face is everywhere and I mean everywhere. The threads on social media are passionate, angry and sometimes full of hate and naughty words (yikes!).
Yet, hardly anyone is talking about the dogs. Sure there are quotes from Jim Gorant’s book detailing the abuse and trauma inflicted on the dogs but has anyone talked to the adopters? The rescuers? Has anyone reached out to those of us who have an oddly intimate connection to this case? From my personal experience most of the adopters would probably not comment; we are protective of ourselves, our dogs and the sanctity of their story.
So where do I stand? I must admit, my emotions are still raw and my mind is a jumble. I am caught in the place in grief where I struggle to comprehend that it has only been five weeks since Ginger has passed but holy cow, how has it already been five weeks? It seems like just yesterday she was frolicking around in her Dumbo costume on Halloween and now I am decorating the Christmas tree with an 8-year old foster dog at my side…
As I reflect on our twelve years together, I don’t dwell on Vick. I can’t. Her story was so much bigger than that, our story was bigger than that. I think about the zillion and one happy memories and the way that Ginger could brighten anyone’s day – her smile and soulful eyes touched so many people.
I understand that people are angry and I hope the numerous petitions make an impact on the NFL. I would like to humbly encourage people (the hundreds of thousands of you that have been motivated to sign a petition) to go beyond your anger and do something small (or big!) to celebrate and honor the lives of the dogs.
Think of Ginger, Stella, Red, Little Red, Uba, Frodo, Zippy, Hector, Handsome Dan, Squeaker, Layla, Oscar, Ray, Georgia, Cherry, Johnny, Halle, and the other beautiful souls who have brought so much love, light and happiness to their families, friends and anyone lucky enough to have been a part of their stories and happily ever after (if you are reading this then YOU are also a part of their story).
1.) Selfishly, I would love your vote for Ginger’s Holiday Wishes story so the The SPCA for Monterey County can win $25k! Wouldn’t this be an incredible legacy for her?!? ❤️ Vote here: http://wshe.es/XuPnET6s
2.) Make a donation to your favorite animal shelter or rescue. It can be cash, a toy, etc. No gift is too small to make a difference to a homeless animal. While the animals are the ultimate, maybe bring some sweet treats or snacks to the shelter staff and volunteers – free food is huge for shelter workers!
3.) Go visit your local shelter and spread some love. Maybe you can snuggle some kitties or take a dog for a walk?
4.) Don’t have cash, transportation, etc. to help? You can start a Facebook fundraiser to raise a little $ for your favorite group!
5.) How about writing a thank you letter to a shelter? Or send them a holiday card?
6.) Cuddle your own pet, squish them and smother them with kisses. Take a goofy selfie with them, give them a toy that makes too much noise, let them roll in something stinky, let them sniff that weird crack on the sidewalk for just a bit longer.
Whatever you do, I hope it makes YOU smile and changes some of that anger to a bit of happiness and love.
Much love ❤️, Stacy
