Dr. Tom, this is for you. In case there are plenty of Dr. Tom's who read this blog, the intended is found at 970-380-3392 and knows the name Oliver because it belonged to his dog.
Recently Oliver was roaming the streets of LaVita, CO on a very cold and raining evening. He'd apparently been on the loose for awhile. Soaked through and whining/pining away, he approached us and did his very best to look desirable. [You will only see one acceptable photo of him. The others were blurred because I was so upset.] He really wanted some human attachment and action. We noted his collar with a tag. Oddly it had his name and the above phone number. My traveling pal called and left a message.
Even more oddly a return call was made and Dr. Tom said, "Just let him go."

REALLY?
Now, in fairness you could interpret that, just as words, without intonation, as a means of indicating that Oliver would be home when he was through wandering this small town of 800 peeps. Unfortunately that was not the tone my friend heard.
In addition to that, a young worker at the local inn had seen Oliver around during the rainstorm and was concerned about his well-being. We know this because as he saw us with Oliver he asked if he was our dog. Oliver went right over to him so we knew he'd been treated nicely by this young man. When we said no and relayed the return phone call results he told us he'd called earlier and got the same suggestion.
He took Oliver home.
My advise: If you have a pet dog or cat take care of it. This is a commitment with immense rewards.
Oliver was pathetically distraught. I was prepared to call my friend who coordinates Basset rescue rides (Guardian Angels) and bring him back to IL with me so he could be placed. He is young. He appears healthy. He was desperately wanting to know what happened and that he was going to be "OK".
The Pollyanna in me hopes Dr. Tom just did mean Oliver would wander home. If so, well, too bad. He should never have left him out a)loose b)for so long and c)with such a cavalier attitude in responding to caring people. Townspeople knew who he is when we repeated the woeful story to them so, maybe, although they weren't very optimistic. Thanks to the young worker who took Oliver home. We hope they have a bright future TOGETHER!
On an even brighter note - we met loads of happy rescued dogs!!!! More about them later...