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We did it again: Calling your elected representives works
By Gina Spadafori
February 19, 2009
But only if we work together and flood them with our opinion — phone, fax, e-mail and in-person visits. It’s not just lobbyists who have the power, if we take the power as citizens.
California passed a budget sometime in the wee hours of the morning. If you don’t live in California, here’s the take-away: We killed the tax on veterinary services. Perhaps now legislators nationwide will stop thinking that taking a family member to get health care is not the same thing as a round of golf.
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When I read the budget has finally passed, I wondered about the fate of the tax on veterinary services and whether it had resurfaced and found it’s way back in. Good job, CA!
Comment by Anne T — February 19, 2009 @ 3:02 pm
And don’t stop there! As we just posted, HSUS has organized a legislative caucus to ““take lawmaking for the animals to the next level.”
The main stream media is, so far, silent on this issue and a list of representatives affiliated with the caucus is not yet available.
Folks, this is something we all need to keep an eye on. Write to your representatives and let them know that “Humane Wayne” and his vicious pack of mindless, mean-spirited monsters don’t speak for you.
Comment by SmartDogs — February 19, 2009 @ 4:05 pm
I just don’t think the mainstream media “gets it.” That’s why they keep going to PETA for comment.
What percentage of animal lovers truly agree with PETA’s goal of true animal liberation and the extinction of domesticated animals? Very, very small.
And yet, the group is constantly called for comment on behalf of “animal lovers” — making statements that are often at odds with policy positions that can be found on their site with just a minute or so with Teh Googles.
It’s a PR triumph for PETA … and a lot of work for the rest of us to get the truth out there.
Comment by Gina Spadafori — February 19, 2009 @ 4:39 pm
Gina, I know this is changing the subject.
My 15yr old Batman went to join his predecessor in heaven tonight—heart trouble did him in.
I’ll be looking for another star tonight. He was the sweetest Tuxedo cat anyone could have, and I am sort of paying tribute to his life by posting his passing on your famous, well run, and inspiring website.
Comment by Colorado Transplant — February 19, 2009 @ 7:27 pm
That is never off topic.
I am so sorry for your loss, even if 15 years is a good run. Thank you so much for your kind words regarding what we do here. You know we all try to make a difference.
A lot of new stars lately … very sad time.
Comment by Gina Spadafori — February 19, 2009 @ 8:05 pm
Colorado T. - we have our first tuxedo cat, Alexander, age 5 months. I’ll think of your Batman when I pet him tonight. Hope we have him as long. Condolences.
Comment by Susan Fox — February 19, 2009 @ 8:09 pm
Thanks Gina and Susan—it makes a difference when I know you two care.
Susan, I am glad that you have a Tuxedo cat—they are usually very good natured and loving.
I, too, hope he lasts as long.
And Gina, I do know you that the whole crew at Pet Connection are working hard for the betterment of all creatures in this world.
Comment by Colorado Transplant — February 19, 2009 @ 10:45 pm
Godspeed Batman…
Comment by Carol V — February 20, 2009 @ 5:23 am
C.T.-I’m so sorry. It’s been a sad few days in this regard. I’ll wave to him tonight. Hang in there.
Comment by Lori — February 20, 2009 @ 6:59 am
The reason media keep quoting the nutcakes at Peta is because their online hits go through the ceiling every time. More audience share = higher advertising rates.
That’s what it’s all about these days. Competition is fierce, especially online where mainstream media are losing readers to the blogosphere.
The last thing they want to do is kill the goose that laid the golden egg. Ingrid is a sure-fire hit - kind of like ‘pit bull’.
Corruption, all is corruption.
Comment by Selma — February 20, 2009 @ 7:44 am
Um, no.
Speaking as a person who has spent a lot of time as a reporter, with reporters and editing reporters, I can say for absolute certainty that when a reporter is looking for a comment on a story, they don’t put “will draw attention” in their list of priorities.
Actually, it’s something else, generally: expediency and/or laziness. PETA has established itself as reliable source of comment “for the animals.” You can pick up the phone and call them and have your story done in just a few minutes.
So, no, “the media” isn’t part of PETA’s agenda. They’re just too buzy/lazy to dig deeper into what that agenda is.
Comment by Gina Spadafori — February 20, 2009 @ 7:57 am
I just signed a petition put out by the RIVMA while at the vets this am (Jack got “tutored”- as Gina says -last week) RI wants to now tax vet bills here and the vets know we do NOT want any extra fees….so off to send some emails to all I know here in RI that like to speak their mind too!
Comment by Carol V — February 20, 2009 @ 8:37 am
Thanks, Carol V
Thanks, Lori
It takes quite a few days to know that he is not going to be in his usual places, but I will get there.
Comment by Colorado Transplant — February 20, 2009 @ 10:44 am
C.T. — I could have sworn seeing my pals after their passings…even Jack was walking past the towel shelf where Smudge was hanging out before her recent crash and as if on cue he jumped back as he had been hissed at each morning…only she was not there…he still hesitates when walking by and it is over two months since losing her…we miss their presence as well as them if you know what I mean…they are there with us every day…in everything we do…I think that is why the loss is so huge…It is surely nice to be surrounded by those that understand!
Comment by Carol V — February 20, 2009 @ 2:24 pm
I have always seen/felt/heard my animals for a little time after they’ve gone. I don’t know if it’s wishful thinking, or imagination, or what. But I know that something about them — an essence, a spirit — lingers for a while and then is gone in all places but memory.
Comment by Gina Spadafori — February 20, 2009 @ 2:37 pm
I think I had a warning when my remote doorlock on my car malfunctioned and I could not get into my car without contacting the dealer. Then I went home and froze because the electricity went off. That was two days before his passing. Some people believe that malfunctioning electronic or electrical stuff may be a signal from the spiritual world.
In an case, maybe I should not be in such a rush to tear his spirit from my world. I am seeing things like a black tail passing by when I know no other cat is around.
My love for Batman will never die while I am alive and I am now on alert for any messages.
Thanks, you gals.
Comment by Colorado Transplant — February 20, 2009 @ 7:50 pm
Yes, I’ve felt that warm breeze of a spirit passing by ,and the full,sweet stillness in my heart. And then, gone away.
Comment by maggie roth — February 20, 2009 @ 7:51 pm