Wind, Fire, and the Environment

Fierce winds have scratched at the roof and walls of my building for most of the last few days. They have driven firestorms across the most northern area of the county devastating homes and peoples’ lives and killing more than 40 thoroughbred horses. One mobile home park was leveled. I hear the shrill pitch of the winds and hold my breath. Please, please, no more. We’ve had more than we can take.

Of course, we are not alone here in San Diego County. Other parts of the state has experienced even worse in the last few weeks. Our Governor believes the weather is caused partially by global warming. I’m not a scientist, so I don’t know, but I tend to think that is true. I side with “maybe.” Even if there is a small chance it is true, what would be the harm in changing our habits to ensure a more environmentally sound planet? I think that would be a reasonable plan everyone should consider. Simple? Of course!

Speaking of the environment…I live in such a beautiful area of San Diego County, yet every day when I walk my dogs, I see trash strewn everywhere. Yesterday, I found car battery cables, a protective mask, and a variety of food wrappers, Starbucks cups (some partially full), a half-eaten sandwich, not to mention seemingly thousands of cigarette butts. I’ve found smashed glass (presumably bottles) on sidewalks and in the street. I also do not understand why someone would pick up after his or her dog, knot the plastic bag, and leave it. Why not carry it to the nearest dumpster or trash bin and dispose of it? Is that really hard? I guess in the whole scheme of things, it’s better than just not picking it up at all. People need to do better. If they can’t clean up after a dog, they should NOT adopt one. Period.

P.S. Always leash your dog. Don’t tell me your dog won’t bite; that’s not the point. Educate yourself about all the reasons your dog should be leashed. Further, even service dogs must be leashed.