El Gorila 2014 | Page 4

From top left: Mike, Inka, Batman, Micro, Johnny Cash, Blackjack, Ashton, Blackie, Ayla, Ice, Nakiya, Cookie, Ruger, and Velcro. All photos by Mark Blumer By Marilyn Blumer Most folks who text, e-mail and participate on social network sites such as Face Book and Twitter are familiar with acronyms such as BFF (best friends forever) or BTW (by the way) or OMG (oh my gosh). But have you ever heard of BBD? This is the name of a widespread syndrome in the US and people who work in animal shelters are very familiar with the term. It stands for big black dog and big black dog syndrome also goes hand in hand (or paw in paw) with black cat syndrome as well. It may come as a surprise to many that black dogs (especially big black dogs) and black cats take a lot longer to get adopted than those with lighter colored fur-up to four times longer. Ad sponsored by George & Kathy Sagel - A decorated Veteran, George is one of our dedicated volunteers. We are proud to have this hero as a partner! Find out how you can volunteer by calling Linda Lowe at 918-336-1577 ext. 104 4 WASHINGTON COUNTY SPCA SPRING 2014 Currently, our Washington County SPCA is experiencing this phenomenon as well. There is an abundance of good natured black dogs and cats just waiting for a lifetime home with a loving owner or family. There are many reasons that black dogs and cats take