Speaking of mind and body, the dogs and cats of Louisiana are in the news today. Up for adoption are the many surrendered pets that out-of-work folks cannot afford to keep.

Caroline Knapp describes in her book, PACK of TWO The Intricate Bond Between People and Dogs, the extraordinary value of the family pet.

"My human relationships are unpredictable, sometimes volatile, always subject to complication and flux. But my dog stays the same, her reactions to me constant. In a sea of changeable emotions and circumstances, she is a small anchor, a steady presence who bears witness to the most private details, the monumental shifts and incremental changes, who remains right there.
"Dogs represent the one relationship in life where consistency is never questioned, never doubted, never compromised by the vicissitudes of human moods and circumstances and priorities. And so we get to experience something else that's rare in human affairs: trust.
"This is the only nonpolitical relationship I have ever had..."

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It is extremely unfortunate that at a time when people most need their pets, they are losing them.

Photo: by Lorna, "Sharon & Mr. Bean." For larger image, click on photo.