Thursday, April 2, 2009

Anjing bagus and friend

We arrived back in Bali three weeks ago and I began my 6 mile morning beach walk routine. Immediately, I noticed there weren't as many dogs wandering about as before and most were wearing collars and tags or at least a colorful piece of string around their necks. I found out that because of several cases of rabies in Denpasar, many dogs were rounded up and euthanized. Though quite controversial as to possibly not the most humane method used, many of these Bali dogs lead a desperate life of so little food, few are spayed or neutered and none are given adequate healthcare. It is a far cry from the life that Sophie leads. Though heartbreaking, I can not help but be hopeful that it will be a better life for the dogs that remain and charm me every morning along the beach. 

10 comments:

Margaret Ann said...

Somehow, I foresee you writing and illustrating a book in the future about these dogs...you have quite a marvelous collection of sketches already...and your feelings for them are so heartfelt...

OMG...Word Verification: "balit"
or in my imagination
"Bali..Tee" possibly referring to the Bali dog shirt you recently bought!!???? :)
Hmmmm....

Caroline said...

Anjing Bagus - Good dog!! Love this illustration will have to find some time to trawl back through your blog and see all the others!

Judybec said...

love your drawings and musings Jennifer. --interesting to hear about the everyday life in Bali -- I especially found your post about the "silent day" fascinating.

Since Margaret Ann posted her word verification....here's mine:
undoge : )

seesue said...

Jennifer your blog is a favourite stopping spot. This guy is so sweet and I too, find todays story heartening.

kazumiwannabe said...

Oh, all your last paintings are so beautiful! Love your colors and your style!

Sandy said...

Oh this would break my heart as well. Often travels show cats or dogs with no life support (usually not both in the same place) Your sketches are wonderful.

Ann said...

Beautiful watercolor yet so sad about the dogs there.

A Brush with Color said...

I love this, Jennifer! Sweet. It is sad to hear how dogs are treated in other parts of the world, when ours can be so pampered. Your little one is very lucky.

Kate (Cathy Johnson) said...

this is just wonderful, Jennifer...beautifully done.

john.p said...

AAaaah! Just want to scratch his ear.