Table Scraps: Tough Times

This week has been traumatic and disheartening. While I intend for my little corner on the internet to be a place of positivity, it’s very hard to dredge up any good vibes when the news is consistently delivering moments of absurdity (i.e. Trump suggesting he try insulin) to the downright shocking, awful murder of George Floyd (say his name). One thing that softened the week, however, was my first pupper’s birthday. Kitty turned 4 on May 29.

Celebrating a dog’s birthday is typically kind of silly, right? But why not? While the world seems to be burning down around us, taking a moment to appreciate our furry friends with toys and treats reminds me of what’s truly important: kindness to all creatures, and honoring those who silently stand by our side through thick and thin. Well, not so silently; Kitty is part Corgi which means her bark is always present.

How have you been coping? Pets are known to help alleviate stress and lower blood pressure. But the companionship is really the biggest benefit -- especially during a pandemic. If you’re at home with pets as your roommates, they’re probably giving you life right about now. Maybe they crawl on your lap and provide comfort while watching Omar Jimenez get arrested on live TV. Maybe they remind you of what’s important, too.

Here’s a great roundup of resources and charities you can donate to, or get involved with, that help support George Floyd’s legacy and justice. Teen Vogue is back at it with “How to Safely and Ethically Film Police Misconduct.” While these are front of my mind, I also want to remind everyone that there are people struggling to feed their pets and get them veterinary care during COVID-19; the Humane Society has developed a relief fund. If you need a pick-me-up, I recommend Patton Oswalt’s I Love Everything on Netflix.

Please stay safe & give your pets all the love this weekend. 

MPCC xx