PET FRIENDLY COMMUNITY

In this day of so much uncertainty, I find a constant source of positive and happy energy that affects me on a daily basis; my animals. Between my own pets and all those that live at AGC, I am continually reminded that there is still good in the world. I meet and talk to concerned and caring people that truly want the best for our furry friends and are willing to do their part in helping achieve that end. Another thing that I've come to realize is that animals bring good feelings, smiles, and even conversations among total strangers. Very seldom am I ever out in public without at least one of my dogs. This means anywhere from Lowe's to Hobby Lobby to the grocery store. It never fails; someone will come up to me, smile, and ask about my dog. They tell me about their pet at home or one that they had years ago, being comfortable with someone that understands. I've also noticed if someone is not an animal lover, they are the ones that just walk by, no smile or eye contact and in a hurry most of the time. They almost appear to be sad. I'm telling you about this because I believe that a pet friendly community is an attitude worth working toward. It's a given that when you walk into a store or shop that has a resident pet, the overall environment is one of welcome and the atmosphere is a little more relaxed. Even sidewalk eating areas that bring out a bowl of water for your dog while you are trying to figure out what to order, makes for a much more pleasant meal. Those sitting around you that don't have a pet with them are friendlier and will smile at you. Somehow a pet can cause just down right friendliness! People seem to let down their guard a little when they see you with your pet, and the feeling of common ground is instant. I had a gentleman stop me in Lowe's and ask about my dog that was riding in the shopping cart. In the next few minutes he was talking about the loss of his beloved pet with tears in his eyes and at times finding it difficult to speak. All of this is taking place right in the aisle of the store. Now I ask you, what other thing would provoke such a happening, if not the pet? I know the argument about when and where a pet is appropriate, or cleanliness, especially when food is being served. But think about it. Does a dog sitting next to your chair on the sidewalk really have anything to do with what is on your plate? I'm just saying, think about it. We live in a fast-paced world and I'm all for anything that slows us down, makes us smile, or maybe give us a reason to just be a little nicer to one another. And in my experience, a pet friendly community or town is a great way to start. It doesn't even matter what type of animal you favor, it's the common denominator, the love of an animal that brings about a sense of good old fashioned neighborliness. Life could be so much more pleasant for all of us if we could find that way of being open and accepting of one another, just like what we get from our much-loved pets. Now I ask you, could it get any better than that? Denise

All God's Creatures is offering boarding & grooming. We have a bright & friendly environment for your pets, 24 hour on-site care, and our location is convenient as well. Please call to make your reservation for boarding or to make an appointment for your pet's next grooming. 803.279.1613

We have so many wonderful pets that need homes here at AGC. We do our best to provide as close to a home environment as possible but it still just isn't the same as a real forever home. Our rescues are friendly, loving and deserve a chance to be loved and cared for by their own personal families! Here are a few for you to meet.

WILEY - He is a Jack Russell Terrier mix and is quite special. Wiley had been hit by a car before he came to us. The leg was not treated and had already healed by the time we got him. He has a funny way of walking but has no problem getting around and is in no pain. He is the ultimate lap dog and would rather be held than eat! Wiley has that one in a million personality; fun loving, sweet and affectionate. He is neutered, current on vaccinations and heartworm preventative.

KIRBY - She is also a Jack Russell Terrier mix and a great little girl. Kirby is a little older than most of our residents but she still has much love and companionship to give to the one that gives her the chance. She is around 4 - 5 years old, spayed, current on all vaccinations and heartworm preventative and weighs in at 9 pounds. The perfect house dog for any situation!

GEGE - She is a Rottweiler with her tail in tact. She is less than 2 years old and a beautiful girl. GeGe has a sweet temperament and is friendly. She gets along with other dogs and people and loves to go for long walks. She would be a great house dog and partner for anyone looking for that constant companion.

CHINA - China was a puppy that came in a few months ago having been hit by a car. A Good Samaritan saw her in the ditch and stopped to pick her up. She was cut across her back and had a fractured skull. Once the vet finished, China was sporting 26 stitches in two different places and was very sore, to say the least. Her new room mate was Baby and together they have healed and grown into great, loving little girls. China is probably a Pointer mix of some kind and is a beautiful black and white, shiny, short-coated puppy. I know she will make you a great pet and companion.

Now that you've met a few of our AGC rescues, won't you call and set up a time to come meet the perfect pet for you? Our number is 803-279-1613 and our web site is agcpetrescue.org. If you should get our answering machine, please leave us a message, we are out taking care of our '4-legged children.' We truly look forward to hearing from you and look forward to seeing which one of our pets will be the perfect one for you.

All God's Creatures is participating in the Purina Pets for Seniors program. In this program, Purina will pay $50 of the adoption fee for senior people that adopt adult cats or dogs (over 1 year). The website for the program is purinapetsforseniors.com. You can sign up for the program by going to their website.