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A couple of major doctor visits last week. First, a scan as fluids was pushed through at the cardiologist. I was hooked up to an IV for about one hour checking the flow through a heart valve. I’m having slight pains in my chest due to a narrow passage pushing blood through. I’m set up to possibly see a special valve doctor next time around, till then I should be okay.

The next day I saw my urologist, I call the poor man Igor. I have loads of scabs and scar tissue in my bladder but unless I have a major problem I won’t see Igor for another six months.  

I’ve had two minor cases, one at and one dog. The cases were only minor due to funds spent but not to the animals and their families. Best of all, all is well.

I’m currently dealing with a major case in which I must keep all names and descriptions of the animal a secret for the time being. I’m working with some of the best, caring people I know and I will see all fees are covered till this magnificent animal finds a proper home.

This case reminds me of so many cases I’ve saved from being euthanized years ago. I still hear from many of the owners who let me know how much they loved the animal they rescued.

I’m sure many of you are aware of the case where two pit bulls attacked and killed a mini horse that was a family pet. I do not know any of the people involved though my heart goes out to their family.

The reason I’m mentioning this is that I and many like me have worked tirelessly to educate people about what wonderful animals these bully dogs are. Some I’ve saved: Soldier, Cosmo, Snowy, Hugo, etc. All bully dogs who became wonderful family members. There are many more I haven’t mentioned, before you contact me please know I haven’t forgotten.

The reason I bring this up is that we must, absolutely MUST penalize the owners of these animals for allowing this to happen, or all the work that I and others like me will go for naught. I’m not talking only about bulldogs, they can be Collies, Shepherds, Labs, etc. People immediately blame the dog; I blame the owners.

I could give pages and pages of statistics. All I ask is that you think twice before you condemn the animal. It’s probably too late for the animals that attacked that poor horse but please, let’s not condemn them all.

Thanks for listening.

Leonard Rizzo is the founder of Lennie’s Kids, a nonprofit organization that helps sick and injured animals in the foothills, promotes animal welfare and works to find homes for pets.