A few years back, I had a dream.  It was one of those sleep-dream-states that seemed incredibly real.  You know the kind.

At any rate, this one in particular was about my perfect dog.  I was playing with him, and we were just romping around, like a girl and her dog would……  on any given Wednesday afternoon.  In the dream, the dog’s name was Henry.  I still have a very clear picture of the little scruffy canine in my head.  Little Mutt.  Cute.  He looked a teensy bit like Ollie.

Anyway, I just couldn’t figure where the name Henry came from, but I’ll tell you, it is the best name for a boy dog.  In my estimation, at least.

Tonight then, I learned about a guy named Henry Bergh.

I’d never heard his name before.  As it turns out, this guy was really something.  You see, on this date, April 10th… way, way back in the year of 1866, Old Henry founded the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in New York City.  Now how about THAT?

He was incensed by the cruelty that was happening to animals, in things like slaughterhouses, and within sport, such as cock fighting.

Then…. on April 19th, the first anti-cruelty law was passed as a result. At that time, there were three staff members at the ASPCA.  Three.

In 1867, ASPCA operated its first ambulance for injured horses and advocated alternatives for inhumane actions toward animals such as horses, live pigeons, cats and dogs.  When I think of 1867, I don’t think of people being concerned for the well-being of animals.  But apparently, some folks were.  And I am glad for that.  They led the way.

Happy Birthday kind  Henry.  You are one of my heroes.  Good dog Henry.  Good dog.

“Nothing that I can do will change the structure of the universe. But maybe, by raising my voice I can help the greatest of all causes – goodwill among men and peace on earth.” – Albert Einstein

“Woof.  Wooooooof.” – Maxine Virginia Swift