January is Unchain a Dog Month. Dogs may well be the most important ambassadors that animals have. By trusting human beings and giving even some of the cruelest people unconditional love, they give a glimpse into the world of non-human animals who all have feelings, experience pain and pleasure, and depend on us not to torment and kill them.

With that in mind, this month reminds us to raise awareness for dogs who are chained outdoors and suffer intense loneliness, boredom, and can even freeze to death in cold climates. If there is a local ordinance banning chaining of dogs, the individual can be reported to authorities. Another option is to volunteer to take the dog for walks. Our example could help change their behavior or, at least, give us an opportunity to talk to them about what dogs need. If we don't have the time or opportunity to walk them, even a treat, warm straw, or some fresh water would be the highlight of that dog's day.

Some folks don't care about their dogs, but others who keep their dogs outside in chains are simply doing what their family has always done, unaware of the complex needs of dogs and animals in general. It is important to keep in mind that we are trying to help the dog and not shame the people which would put them on the defensive.

I remember a dog who was kept in a small pen in the back yard. That poor dog would sit and stare at the back door whimpering. It was heartbreaking to watch. I talked to the people several times offering to give him water, etc. They refused to let me on the property. The pen met the qualifications of the city, so Animal Control could not confiscate him.

So I wrote a letter from the dog-to the people. It basically said that he sat all day watching the door just to get a glimpse of his beloved people and how he longed to come inside and be part of their family and love them. Believe it or not, a few days after I sent that letter, the dog was inside with his family at long last. His wish came true.

This month, let us give thanks for the dog ambassadors of the world who do so much to teach people about how much love animals have to give us. And let us envision a world in which all dogs are treated with dignity, given the love and attention they need, never left on a chain to suffer alone, and liberated to do what they have come here to do. And in our prayers, let us see all people making the connection between dogs and other animals and realizing that they all deserve love and freedom from human domination and exploitation.

With Love, peace, and gratitude from Judy; and Will, Madeleine, and the Circle of Compassion team