Several weeks ago, I had to make a very painful decision, which was to have my beloved dog put to sleep. Two days later, a beautiful cocker spaniel showed up on my porch.

After placing many ads, at my own expense, posting pictures of him in various businesses and visiting neighborhoods, I finally felt as though I had exhausted every effort of finding his family.

I decided, with the help of the wonderful people at the Butler County Humane Society, to foster him until I could find just the perfect home.

Many people called me about him, and I finally picked what I thought was the perfect match for him — you guessed it, me. I thank everyone who called me about him, but he has some issues such as I don't think he is kid friendly. And, there are a few other issues that I am willing to work on.

I believe that he might have been a throwaway because he is young, housebroken and just a wonderful little guy.

I know the economy is bad, but if what I suspect is true, this is one lucky dog. What about the hundreds and hundreds of other cats and dogs thrown away that freeze, starve or, worse yet, are struck by cars and left to die an agonizing death?

The Butler Eagle published an article about two wonderful and caring women who are joining forces and starting a food cupboard just for animals, They are Shelby Young and Gloria Johnson. I will be meeting with them after the holidays to see what we can do so people are not forced to abandon their precious animals.

I am glad that I could help one homeless dog; my heart aches for the many more that are not so lucky.