Several years ago, Bobby McGee, a young shepherd mix, was found injured along U.S. 31 near Calhoun Community College. He was covered in ticks. When examined, he was found to have a bullet wound to his shoulder and buckshot peppering his body.

What kind of evil shoots a defenseless creature who wants nothing more than to serve? I hope he doesn’t claim to be a Christian, because what kind of Christian would needlessly hurt another of God’s creatures?

I hope the perpetrator isn’t a parent, because how could he teach a child empathy when he apparently has none? I hope if he finds himself cold, hungry, injured or needing kindness, he will find someone willing to give him more than he deserves.

I’m guessing that person won’t be me, because I’m not as forgiving as Bobby McGee. You see Bobby, who has no reason to trust humans, still seeks the good in everyone he meets.

There are people who keep dogs in horrendous living conditions, breeding and overbreeding them to sell the resulting puppies. They don’t care that living creatures are kept in filthy cages all their lives, laying in their own waste, never seeing the light of day or feeling grass beneath their feet. Their only goal is to use these pitiful creatures for monetary gain.

Also, never forget the subhuman participants in the dog and cockfighting trades, both those who raise and train the animals to fight and those who support this cruel and vicious trade by attending and betting on the fights. How could any person with a heart and soul intentionally inflict such pain on helpless animals and get pleasure from such violence? Is this a person you want as a neighbor? A co-worker? A friend? The person with whom you share your life?

So what can we do? First, never mistreat an animal and teach your children to be kind through your example. Next, encourage others to do the same. If that doesn’t work, have the strength of character to report abuse and neglect.

Take a stand against abuse; contact your mayor, City Council, County Commissioners and state lawmakers to tell them the humane treatment of animals is important to you and that you want stronger laws and enforcement of those laws to ensure that our animals are protected.

As we recognize National Animal Cruelty/Human Violence Awareness Week (beginning April 21), take a stand against cruelty and violence of all kinds. Be kind. Be courageous. Be the person your children can emulate. Be the person your dog already thinks you are.

— To adopt a dog or cat, please visit 1701 U.S. 72 (behind Limestone Veterinary Clinic,) visit limestonepets.org or call 256-771-7889.