Friday, November 23, 2007

Staying Power

Yesterday I had a moment to peruse some of my favorite blogs and discovered yet, again, the longevity of the Barbaro story. On Dolittler, an excellent animal blog (for those of you who have pets or care about them, it is written by a vet with an insider's view of the profession as well as pet owners), the author reports that number 7 on her list of things to be thankful for, is the Barbaro story.

Her thanks have to do with the spotlight that Barbaro's saga shone on the veterinary profession as well as the attention the beloved racehorse brought to the not always rosy picture of the sport and animal welfare in general.

It is true that Barbaro's story launched an entire grass-roots political movement that continues to this day, devoted to the cause of horse welfare, including rescuing retired racehorses from auctions (where they are often sold for slaughter), lobbying for safer racing surfaces and raising money and awareness for horse retirement facilities.

In fact, it is safe to say that it is highly unusual for an Internet-based fan group to spawn a grass-roots political movement.

Needless to say, I am grateful for all aspects of the Barbaro story as well, not the least of which has been the opportunity to meet some of the most kind, talented and caring people I have ever met.

Would it be greedy to ask for the opportunity to tell their story?

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