“Personally, I would not give a fig for any man’s religion whose horse, cat and dog do not feel its benefits. Life in any form is our perpetual responsibility.”

– S. Parkes Cadman

“If you have men who will exclude any of God’s

creatures from the shelter of compassion and

pity, you will have men who will deal likewise

with their fellow men.”

– St. Francis of Assisi

Early last Monday morning a friend told me a story that set the mood for the day.

And the mood was not one of great cheer.

In fact, I fretted most of the week and since misery loves company, today I’m passing on the story so some of you might fret right along with me.

Last Sunday someone dumped a family pet in the busy parking lot outside Barnes & Noble at The Mall at Barnes Crossing.

Fortunately for the adorable dog, the bookstore’s staffers, especially two young women named Toni and Benita, were paying attention. Fortunately for the pup, the staffers also have great hearts.

Seems a couple with a child purchased drinks in the Barnes & Noble cafe from Toni. They left the store and moments later, the woman returned, unhappy that her dog had spilled her drink.

While fixing the woman another drink, Toni heard her mumbling about getting rid of the dog.

Benita, God bless her, watched the woman return to her car and saw her toss the dog from the car. She told Toni, who ran out of the bookstore and told the woman she was about to back over the dog.

The woman said she didn’t care and threw the dog’s leash at Toni.

‘Wonderful, smart’ Bear

I’m told the little dog cried as his owners drove away. I’m also told Toni was able to find out that his name is Bear and that he’s about 4.

I’ve also been told Bear is a sweetheart of a dog – “wonderful and smart.”

Most of us who’ve heard this story wish someone had thought to get a car tag number.

I’m not sure what might have been done, but I do know folks who continue to work tirelessly in this state for legislation that will one day protect animals like Bear from the cruelty of human beings.

If you’ve ever loved an animal – and been loved fiercely in return – you’ll agree there will be a special place for anyone who has ever abused, neglected or abandoned an innocent animal.

There’ll most assuredly be a special place for folks like Toni, Benita and all the others who’ve rescued and fostered animals in need.

Especially those who’ve given pets like Bear a safe and loving new home.

Contact Leslie Criss at leslie.criss@djournal.com or (662) 678-1584. Happy birthday, Mom!