The Human Factor

Here we look at some special relationships between humans and animals. Stories about rescuing animals--whether that means taking home a stray dog from your local animal shelter or bringing home a days-old baby opossum you find on a roadside--is not an easy task. Yet all the extra love and care abandoned or abused animals need is repaid a thousand times by the love and trust they eventually offer us in return.

You will also find a story about a vegan artist, and how his decision about what to eat affects his work.

Author Tama Janowitz has adopted several purebred dogs over the years that were considered below show standard by breeders that in turn offered below standard care to these "rejects"--cramped cages, no exercise or attention, minimal food and water. Her essay "My Dog Lulu" tells the story of Lulu and Beepbeep, two very special dogs
 Craig Rogers adopted a baby opossum he found on the side of the road. We'll risk an editorial intrusion here and suggest that you definitely read this one--the story is brief and also quite touching, thanks in good part to Craig's simple, unique style.
Lisa Sandmire has a wonderful story of her rescue of a dog hit by a car on a busy highway. Due to quick reflexes on Lisa and her husband's part, this story has a happy ending, including reuniting the dog with her very worried family.
 Donna Adams writes a heart wrenching account of her introduction to a new companion shortly after the loss of her two year old collie from a terminal illness.

Read The Gentle Giant

 

 
Portland anchorwoman Kim Singer has an assortment of dogs, all stray or abandoned animals she has adopted. "The Best Souvenir" is the tale of Pinto, a dog she rescued while on vacation in Mexico. We present Pinto's story as a serial. Parts One and Two are available. Read about Harvey Sobel's canine CPR/First Aid course

Robin Roth-Davies writes about saving feral cats.

Robin writes about Eric Dayton - Vegan Artist

If you've rescued an animal or have other experiences with animals that you'd like to share, send it to us via email at webmaster@arkonline.com. Keep it fairly short, and let us know if a photo is available.