We will never forget 9/11 and the heroes. We will always remember.  T his week's #FlashbackFriday is a somber one. It's our tribute to all those who lost their lives during the 9/11 attacks, their families, and the brave heroes who rushed in to help — the firemen, the police, and all the first responders, as well as the Search and Rescue (SAR) teams,  healthcare workers, veterinarians, and the all of the canines. Plus, the four-legged survivors waiting at home —  the scared dogs and cats.  Twenty-five years. I remember exactly where I was when the news broke, as I know all of you who were old enough to remember do as well. It's imprinted in our minds, and always will be. I was at work, like so many others, when I heard the news. It was a shock. My first thought—since so much was unknown—was to leave work and get my daughter out of school. Which I did. We then went straight home and watched the news together in horror. Soon after my cousin had called to tell me her br...

I t’s the sad truth that way too often now we hear of animals being abandoned, neglected, abused, and those who are repeatedly surrendered by their supposed caregivers; whether it is on the news, in our social media feeds, or by someone we know witnessing someone causing harm to an animal, any animal.    It brings to mind a fitting quote by actor Richard Gere, " As custodians of the planet it is our responsibility to deal with all species with kindness, love, and compassion. That these animals suffer through human cruelty is beyond understanding. Please help to stop this madness.”   While there are sources people can reach out to, such as their local police department, dog control officer, a reputable rescue, the Humane World for Animals (formerly the Humane Society of the United States, the ASPCA, etc., but even if/when they can remove the pet(s) in danger, many times the abuse or abandonment is something that is not registered anywhere.    So, what happen...