Green Wolf

Hey readers, this post is about a celebration from way back. Woo! Party? Well not exactly, I’m afraid this is a little different than what you imagined.

The celebration of the green wolf marks an ancient custom that observes the times way back when wolves, outlaws and you guessed it, werewolves would hide in the fields, sometimes camouflaging themselves with green leaves, moss or whatever else was on hand for them to use.

You see, when it came time to harvest their fields, farmers would walk them and find what they thought were “werewolf nests.” These nests were thought to be where a werewolf had trampled down the crop to make a comfy sleeping spot (if you have ever been in a field you may have seen this before, deer do this quite often). In many parts of France it was common for parents to warn their children too stay away from crops, to not play in them for the loup-garou (werewolf) may find and kill them.

Back to the celebration – in a part of France called Normandy, le loup vert, the green wolf, is chosen each year to dance at the head of the other members of the farming community during the harvest festival. The grand finale of this dance is when a group of very large and burly farmers pretend to throw the green wolf (the man who has been chosen to play the part of the wolf at next year’s observance) into the roaring bonfire. This burning of the green wolf, the wolf covered in leaves and moss, would symbolize the farmers’ victory over hidden evils and menaces in their land that could one day possibly threaten their families or their crops.

So I suppose, in a way it’s like a pep rally against werewolves. Strange the things people used to do to keep away werewolves, right?
- Moonlight

What about that doggie in the window?

Although it might be a little early for puppy season, it is currently kitten season, there always seems to be both puppies and kittens in pet stores. They are small, fluffy, cute, and always begging for attention. More often then not. These babies are in small cages, normally behind a viewing window, and packed into a space that is too small for them, with too many companions to share it with all day and night. Not only is they're current housing lack luster, but what about their previous living environment?

Many puppies and kittens found in stores, if not all or most, are from mills. A mill is a place that treats these would be pets as a production line for breeding, creating a profit. Little care is put into the well being of these animals, health, environment, or socialization. Mills are often over crowded, dirty, and infested among a few things. According to a recent study by the ASPCA, 78% of adults did not realize that dogs where from puppy mills, while 80% claimed they would not buy a dog from a puppy mill (article found on PeoplePets.com). Perhaps this can be confusing when places such as Petsmart provide adoption space for local shelters.

The difference can often be found in wording and a little prodding. When viewing an animal at a store. Is it for adoption? This often suggests a shelter is involved, or a rescue agency. Or is the animal for sale? This suggests the animal was purchased by the pet store from a mill, broker, or individual for resale. These animals often are not well cared for, and are only viewed as a means for profit. If you are unsure. Ask a representative. See if the animal (if not clearly stated on the cage) is from a shelter, and which one, or if it's from a breeder. Pet stores selling mill animal will often claim they are from reputable breeders, which is often not the case. If you are still not convinced, you may need to do more research.

While doing this research, you should learn more about the animal, where it came from and breed you are considering purchasing. You might just find out it's not a good fit for you. As you could end up with a large hyper dog, or one that snores and drools too much. While doing this research, it is best to find a reputable breeder away from the pet stores, if you wish to have a purebred. There are also rescues that are breed specific. But if you still cannot find something. You best stick with finding a good breeder and getting on their waiting list. Finding one can be tricky. Visiting shows, meeting with breeders, or finding one by word of mouth is usually best. Do not fall for the newspaper. These are often bred by people that are not much better the puppy mills (sometimes referred to as Greeders or backyard breeders). Once you find your breeder, do not be surprised if there is a deposit and a waiting list. Some lists can having you waiting for a year! This is often a good sign. This means that others realize that the individual takes the time, effort, and really cares about their animals.

This is why it's good to start early! Do not be tempted by those puppy eyes in that window. You may feel the need to rescue the animal from it's current condition. Don't, leave that to rescues and groups. The best thing you can do for it, is prove to the stores that you do not like their business practices, and that you do not suppose puppy (or kitten!) mills, and give your business to a person who cares. Support good breeders and rescue groups! Check with your local shelters, online, and clubs to help you find your new best friend. Not only will you be doing the animals some good, but you will also be saving some money in the long run. Happy hunting!