FERAL CAT MEANING Animal Story of Feral Cats Scarface & Nipper
Are they really Feral Cats?
After all, we all started out living in the wild. We domesticated ourselves first, that’s all.
Then we took wild wolf pups into our crude homes. And thousands of years later our dogs happily live with us.
After we settled down as a farming species, cats slinked into our Granaries. They loved the rats and mice who lived there. And after a while, some of those cats deigned to come into our homes and live among us.
Feral Cats vs Stray.
Some of our feline pets wander away. Lost cats. Stray cats. Sometimes they’re found. Or find their way home. Sometimes they rewild. Have kittens. We call them Feral, eh? I call them cats.[1]
Here, from author Bobbee Cera, is a wonderful animal story in a class by itself.
In an unexpected twist of fate, a self-professed dog lover recounts the heartwarming saga of a feral cat named Nipper and her protector, Scarface. This narrative explores the peculiar dynamics of animal relationships and the profound impact they can have on human lives.
He had an initial reluctance. But the author’s life becomes intertwined with these feline characters. Leading to a journey filled with surprises, affection, and life lessons.
“The Unlikely Bond: A Tale of Nipper, Scarface and Their Human Companion” by Bobbee Cera
An Unwanted Visitor
I never considered myself a cat person; dogs were my preferred companions. Cats, with their independent streak, never quite appealed to me. However, life has a way of presenting us with the unexpected. One day, a pregnant feral cat appeared at my doorstep, pleading for sustenance. Despite my reservations, I couldn’t resist her plea and offered her some milk, which led to an unexpected bite and the cat earning the name Nipper.
The Cost of Compassion
After the bite, a visit to the vet set me back $84. A sum I begrudgingly paid to ensure Nipper’s health. Yet, her persistent cries outside my door, both day and night, became a nuisance to my neighbors and myself. My attempts to ignore her failed when she presented me with her litter of scrawny kittens. Feral kittens. Accompanied by a rugged tomcat with a half-missing ear, whom I named Scarface.
The Feline Family Dynamic
Scarface, with his battle-scarred appearance, seemed to be the dominant male. He was fiercely protective of Nipper and her kittens. It was fascinating to observe the family dynamics. Scarface would babysit the kittens while Nipper hunted — a behavior rarely discussed in feline studies. According to a study by the University of Georgia, only about 1 in 10 male cats show paternal behavior towards their offspring.[2]
A Bond Beyond Nature
As time passed, the kittens grew and ventured off on their own, and I faced the prospect of moving away. I decided it was best to leave Nipper with Scarface, as she was a wild cat at heart. However, Nipper’s attachment to me proved stronger than expected, leading me to bring her to my new home after she caused a commotion at my old residence.
The Cycle Continues
Settling into our new home, Nipper quickly adapted, but not without a surprise — she gave birth to three kittens resembling Scarface. Despite being spayed, Nipper continued to wait for Scarface’s visits, demonstrating the complexity of feline relationships. After another move, Nipper’s attempts to reunite with Scarface were heart-wrenching. But our return to the vicinity of their first encounter brought an unexpected reunion.
Lessons Learned from Feline Friends
Scarface has since passed away, but Nipper, now an elderly cat with failing health, remains with me. As she approaches her twenty-first year, her presence is a constant reminder of the miracles and lessons that come from opening one’s heart to the unexpected.
In the world of feline behavior, it’s rare to hear about such enduring bonds between feral cats and humans. A study by Oregon State University found that cats can form secure attachments to their caregivers, similar to children and dogs.[3] Nipper’s story is a testament to this, showcasing the depth of connection that can exist between species.
Lessons from the Feline World
Observing the feral cat community has been a transformative experience. It has shown me the power of empathy and the impact of small acts of kindness. As I contemplate the future of this feral family, I am reminded of the broader implications for human society.
If we could emulate the compassion and cooperation exhibited by these cats, we might just create a more harmonious world for all.
– Bobbee Cera
Do You love Animal Stories?
Read my story of the Wolf who rescued a Husky!
READ WOLFBLOOD — MY MOST POPULAR ANIMAL YARN: “I LOVE THE HAPPY ENDING!”
“I JUST READ WOLFBLOOD AGAIN FOR GOOD MEASURE. ONE FOR ANY WOLF LOVER. ENJOYED IT BUT WISH IT WAS A FULL LENGTH NOVEL.” – Gina Chronowicz @ginachron
“GREAT SHORT STORY! DOES REMIND ME OF CALL OF THE WILD, WHITE FANG…” – Evelyn @evelyn_m_k
[1] “A feral cat or a stray cat is an unowned domestic cat (Felis catus) that lives outdoors and avoids human contact; it does not allow itself to be handled or…” Feral Cat.
[2] “According to a study by the University of Georgia, only about 1 in 10 male cats show paternal behavior towards their offspring.” University of Georgia.
[3] “A study by Oregon State University found that cats can form secure attachments to their caregivers, similar to children and dogs.” Oregon State University.
TAGS Animal tale, Feral cats Australia, Feral cats info, feral cats advice, feral cats near me, feral cats for adoption, Feral cats, Feral cats meaning, feral cats vs stray.
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Famous Canadian indigenous art. Carvings and artwork.
NORTHWEST CANADIAN INDIGENOUS ART HISTORY: Totem Poles, Thunderbirds, Eagle & the Wolf Mother
CivilizedBears.com is all about animals. We celebrate our four-footed family members. We celebrate the sacred Wilderness and the wild ones who live there. And, of course, the stories told in word and artwork about the living creatures who fly, swim and run across our Living World.
Here from Art Historian Clint Leung is a Guest Post about some of our fave artforms…
“Discovering the Vibrant Legacy of Northwest Coast Canadian Indigenous Art History” by Clint Leung
The first encounter with the vivid totem poles of the Northwest Coast First Nations can be a mesmerizing experience. These striking cultural symbols are often found in British Columbia. Just the beginning of a rich artistic tradition that encompasses a variety of mediums and forms.
A Cultural Tapestry Woven in Art. The Roots of Northwest Coast Artistry
The indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest, from the river valleys to the coastal waters, were traditionally hunters and gatherers. Blessed with a wealth of resources from the sea and forests, they channeled their experiences and surroundings into their art. Especially the animals.
Canadian Indigenous Art — Eagle
The animals they revered and relied upon. Bears, killer whales, eagles, ravens, salmon, wolves, hummingbirds, and even frogs, became central motifs in their artistic expressions. Chiefs and legendary animals, such as the thunderbird, also featured prominently. Embodying the rich mythology and social structure of these communities.
Canadian Indigenous Art — The Aesthetic of Exaggeration
The art of the Northwest Coast First Nations is characterized by its use of exaggerated forms. And vibrant colors. To the uninitiated, these designs may seem bold, even surreal. But they are deeply rooted in the traditions and stories of the indigenous peoples. The art is not merely decorative. It serves as a narrative medium, conveying tales of ancestry, spirituality and the natural world.
Canadian Indigenous Art — Thunderbird Legends & Totem Pole Art
The Native Indians of the Pacific Northwest Coast always lived along the shores. They never ventured inland to the mountains. Legend has it that the thunderbird, a mighty God in the form of a giant supernatural bird, lives in the mountains. The Quileute tribe of Washington state believed a cave on Mount Olympus as the home of the thunderbird. While the Coast Salish believed it is located on the Black Tusk peak in British Columbia.
Some tribes believe that their people once made a deal with the thunderbird for its help during a food crisis. In return, the tribe agreed to honour the thunderbird for all time by making its image prominent in their Northwest Native American art. This is why West Coast art totem poles are often carved with thunderbirds with outstretched wings at the top.
It’s thought that the thunderbird never wants anyone to come near its home. If Native hunters get too close, the thunderbird will smell them and make a thunder sound by flapping its wings. It would also roll ice out of its cave and down the mountain with chunks breaking up into many smaller pieces.
Canadian Indigenous Art: The Thunderbird — Messenger of the Creator
The Squamish Nation in British Columbia, Canada has a thunderbird as their symbol. Their thunderbird is portrayed as one of the special messengers of the Creator. The Squamish thunderbird is a symbol for strength. As well as change with the three tail feathers representing the past, present and future. In the talons of this thunderbird is a face of a lizard. The lizard represents spiritual protection for the people of the Squamish Nation.
The Global Journey of Northwest Coast Canadian Indigenous Art
Despite its profound cultural significance, Northwest Coast Native Canadian art has only recently begun to receive the recognition it deserves. Both at home and on the global stage. While other indigenous arts, such as Inuit art, have found their place in galleries and museums worldwide. Unfortunately, the art of the Northwest Coast has remained relatively unknown outside its native region.
Canadian Indigenous Art Woodcarving – “Wolf Mother”
However, the tide is turning. Increased tourism to Vancouver has shone a spotlight on this unique art form. Events like the 2010 Winter Olympics in Whistler, BC, began that discovery. As more people from around the globe experience the beauty and depth of Northwest Coast Native Canadian art, its potential for international acclaim grows.
Canadian Indigenous Art — A Future of Recognition and Appreciation
The future looks bright for the art of the Northwest Coast Native Canadians. With its potential for international recognition, there is hope that this art form will be joyously discovered. Becoming a celebrated aspect of global art culture. Also serving as a bridge to understanding and appreciating the rich heritage of the indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest.
By the Numbers: The Unspoken Impact of Northwest Coast Art
While the aesthetic appeal of Northwest Coast Canadian Indigenous Art is now evident. Although its economic and cultural impact is less frequently discussed.
According to the First Peoples’ Cultural Council, the indigenous arts economy in British Columbia alone contributes millions to the province’s revenue. With a significant portion attributed to the sale of traditional and contemporary Northwest Coast art.
The cultural tourism industry is a growing sector. It includes visits to galleries, cultural centers, and heritage sites featuring this art. Thus providing both economic benefits and increased cultural understanding.
The world is becoming more interconnected. The art of the Northwest Coast First Nations stands as a testament to the enduring spirit and creativity of these communities. Offering a window into their storied past and a beacon of their cultural vitality in the present and future.
Thanks, Clint, for this essential look at Canadian Indigenous Art!
Are you as enchanted by Canadian Indigenous Art & Story as I am?
If so, you’ve got to read my popular short story “THE BOY WHO WAS RAISED BY BEARS.” A Traditional Native Canadian Animal Story & Folktale Retold.
Talking bears and human children adopted and raised by loving mother bears are common story themes in both Old and New World oral traditions. Even J R R Tolkien wrote about both Beowulf and “Bear’s Son Tales in European folklore.”
Do You Want To Read My Animal Stories On Your Mobile Cellphone Or Tablet? Go to my Mobile-Friendly BrianAlanBurhoe.com…
TAGS Famous Canadian Indigenous Art, Canadian indigenous art for sale, Canadian indigenous art prints, Canadian indigenous art history, First Nations art Canada, First Nations art for sale.
SPIRIT WITHIN: Native American Art — Turtle Island, Bears, Ravens, Owls
Posted by Brian Alan Burhoe.
As a youngster, it was a joy discovering our Canadian First Nations stories, legends and wonder-filled art. I saw it first in our school library. Then a bus ride took me to Saint John’s city library.
The earliest ones, like Silas T Rand’s dusty LEGENDS OF THE MICMACS, were collected and translated by English and French Canadians. Later, First Nations would be involved in telling their own stories. And illustrating them. Those images, those marvelous flowing, life-filled, spiritual images just snatched me up.
“BEARS UNITED” – Canadian First Nations Bear Art by Alfie Fishgap and Todd Jamieson.
The animals were fantastic. Bears. Wolves. Ravens. Owls. Even whales.
Here, from the knowledgeable Clint Leung, is a Guest Blog you’ve gotta read:
“Native American Pacific Northwest Art Animal Design” by Clint Leung
Introduction – Native American Art
I had lived in Vancouver very briefly as a child. It was during that time when I was first exposed to the art of the Northwest Coast Native American Indians. I was entranced by the towering colorful totem poles out in Stanley Park that everyone gazed at with wonder and appreciation. It took about 30 years later during a return trip to Vancouver when Northwest Coast Native American art caught my eyes again.
I was in Vancouver for business and landed at the city’s new airport terminal. One couldn’t help but notice the huge native carvings near the arrivals area. Later on during my stay, I decided to wander around in the Gastown district. It was in these shops and galleries in Gastown where I fell in love with Northwest Coast Native American art.
I saw many wonderful wooden plaques representing different animals. There were also art prints, paintings, masks, wooden bowls and even furniture with these animals either painted or carved right into the pieces.
SILENT FLIGHT – The Owl
Native American Art: Why Northwest Indian art is distinct
Northwest Indian art is so distinct from other styles of Native American art that most neophyte admirers can probably spot a piece of aboriginal artwork from the Northwest out of a crowd containing other Native arts.
The main traditional colors of Northwest Indian art are black and red. Black is the primary color used in the forwhich is themline outline for the body of the subject. Although Native artists use commercial paint these days, black color was derived from charcoal, graphite or lignite coal in the old days.
The secondary elements of the subject are usually painted red. Red colors were derived from red ochre and hematite minerals before the days of paint.
The Shapes Used in Northwest Native American Art
With further analysis of Northwest Indian art, you realize that the different shapes used by Northwest Native artists in their artwork are what produces the characteristic Northwest look. Each of these main shapes is discussed below with examples shown from authentic artwork by Northwest Native artists.
SPIRIT WITHIN – Native American Art
The Formline of Northwest Indian Art
The formline of Northwest Indian art is the main line that outlines the body of the subject whether it is a person or animal. Different parts of the subject such as the head, joints and other body parts (arms, legs, wings, etc.) are defined by the formline. The formline is usually black in color but can sometimes be red. The thickness of the formline itself can change at various places and contains all the other shapes used for a subject.
The Ovoid Shape of Native American Art
The ovoid is the most dominant shape in Northwest Native art. It’s like a rounded rectangle with inner tension pushing the top to form a convex, similar to the shape of a bread slice. The lower side is sometimes seen with a concave at the bottom.
These oval like shapes vary in size proportions, depending on the kind of subject or creature they are used to symbolize. But all ovoids have the same common qualities whether they are long and slender or fat and round.
Larger ovoids may be used to form the head of a subject, eye sockets, major joints, wings, tails or fins. Smaller ovoids may be used to form joints, eyes, ears, noses or contain faces. Sometimes ovoids are used to help fill empty spaces and corners.
Bear Paw Spirit – Native American Art
Most of the time, the entire body of the animal will be outlined by the formline, but not always. Sometimes only the head, wing, tail or foot will be shown to represent the animal in a different profile.
A bit technical, perhaps. But this helps explain why First Nation art is so collectable today.
Certainly, if you want to understand Native American and Canadian culture it’s all there: in their spoken words and their artwork.
Thank you, Clint, for insightful look at modern Native Art!
Are you as fascinated by First Nation Story & Art as I am?
If so, you’ve got to read my popular short story “THE BOY WHO WAS RAISED BY BEARS.” A Traditional Native American Animal Story & Folktale Retold.
Talking bears and human children adopted and raised by loving mother bears are common story themes in both Old and New World oral traditions. Even J R R Tolkien wrote about both Beowulf and “Bear’s Son Tales in European folklore.”
SOURCE Clint Leung was the Founder of the Free Spirit Gallery. The gallery was an online information resource for Inuit art from the Arctic north and Northwest Native art. Also featuring Indigenous carvings, sculptures, prints and paintings. And numerous informative articles and videos, an excellent research source.
Do You Want To Read My Animal Stories On Your Mobile Cellphone Or Tablet? Go to my Mobile-Friendly BrianAlanBurhoe.com…
ART ABOVE – CREDITS Two First Nation Artists.
“BEARS UNITED“ Here is a very special and rare Native art limited edition print because it features not just one Native artist. But two great Native artists representing two different Native art styles on a single artwork! On the left is a Northwest Native art bear by Alfie Fishgap who represents the Coast Salish Nation from the West Coast. It’s looking at a Woodlands Native art bear by Todd Jamieson of the Oneida Nation in Ontario.
The other paintings are by Todd Jamieson on his own. Todd is a master artist and lives in Brampton, Canada.
RAVEN CARVING. This is a magnificent Pacific Northwest Native art carving of a raven by Alfie Fishgap, who is of Coast Salish Nation, BC background.
Northwest Coast Indian art bird carvings are really popular. Important birds from Northwest Coast Indian culture include eagles, thunderbirds, owls and ravens.
Artwork images presented here with permission.
About the artists: Todd Jamieson and Alfie Fishgap can both be found on Facebook.
TAGS Native American culture, Native American art, Native American Indian, American Indian, Indigenous, First Nation, Formline art shape.
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HUMAN-ANIMAL BOND: A Woman, Her Horses, Her Touching Story & You
“The connection between humans and animals can heal, transform, and even save lives,” said Jackie Ducci. Jackie is the founder of The Human-Animal Alliance.
“These grants are more than funding. They are investments in programs that bring healing to trauma survivors. And comfort to those navigating difficulties. We are honored to collaborate with these exceptional organizations. Enabling people to experience meaningful relationships with animals when they need it most.”
We love animals!
I know you love ’em too. Or you wouldn’t be on this site. Civilized Bears is all about telling stories of our animals and our loving relationship with them. Even my literary history posts about our Mounted Police fall into this category, eh? Since our Mounties are all about their magnificent horses and loyal sled dogs.
Jackie Ducci is my latest heroine. She’s out there telling about our Human-Animal connection. And handing out grants to help other folks with the same beliefs.
“As a child, I struggled with severe social anxiety,” Jackie explains.
“Despite my strong grades, people often mistook my shyness for aloofness, lack of intelligence, or disinterest. I was told incessantly in school that there was something wrong with me. And that my quiet, introverted nature was essentially a character flaw. My lowest moment came in the 6th grade when a teacher told me that I would ‘never amount to anything in life’ because ‘the world belongs to extroverts.’
“But through it all, there was one saving grace — my horses.”
“In the presence of horses, I felt confident and connected. They saw and accepted me for exactly who I was. When the rest of the world didn’t get me. The bonds we formed were deep, genuine, and 100% nonverbal. Showing me that my value as a human being had everything to do with who I was. And nothing to do with what I did or didn’t have to say…
“After being told relentlessly by humans that I had no worth if I had no words, the horses taught me that was simply not true. It was a profound lesson. That singlehandedly changed the state of my mental health. And my life path. To this day, my animals are still the first place I turn for support when navigating life’s challenges.”
Jackie’s Human-Animal Alliance (H-AA) is a nonprofit. It supports programs that champion the power of human-animal connection. And is thrilled to share its 2024 impact. With $87,500 awarded to eight outstanding organizations nationwide, H-AA passionately advocates for the importance of human-animal relationships. And their life-changing influence on individuals and communities.
Drum Roll, please…
H-AA’s Eight 2024 grants are:
PACT for Animals (Gladwyne, PA): $30,000. To support deployed military members’ pets through The Human-Animal Alliance Angel Fund (December 2024).
Beautiful Together Animal Sanctuary (Chapel Hill, NC): $15,000. For animal-assisted learning opportunities for children (December 2024).
Pawster Nashville (Nashville, TN): $10,000. To assist military veterans with pet foster care and housing-related pet fees (December 2024).
BARK Therapy Dogs (Long Beach, CA): $2,500. To establish The Human-Animal Alliance Library in an animal-assisted learning program (December 2024).
The Street Dog Coalition (Asheville, NC): $10,000. For veterinary care and supplies for pets displaced by Hurricane Helene (October 2024).
Pawsitive Beginnings (Key Largo, FL): $10,000. To create The Human-Animal Alliance Healing Den at their fox sanctuary for therapy sessions (August 2024).
Tomorrow’s Rainbow (Coconut Creek, FL): $5,000. To support therapy horses in equine-assisted programs for bereaved children (May 2024).
Shepherd Youth Ranch (Creedmoor, NC): $5,000. For therapy horses in equine-assisted programs for trauma-exposed youth and families (May 2024).
And these grants were just for last Year!
Do You love Wolf Stories?
Read my story of the Wolf who rescued a Husky!
READ WOLFBLOOD — MY MOST POPULAR ANIMAL YARN: “I LOVE THE HAPPY ENDING!”
“I JUST READ WOLFBLOOD AGAIN FOR GOOD MEASURE. ONE FOR ANY WOLF LOVER. ENJOYED IT BUT WISH IT WAS A FULL LENGTH NOVEL.” – Gina Chronowicz @ginachron
“GREAT SHORT STORY! DOES REMIND ME OF CALL OF THE WILD, WHITE FANG…” – Evelyn @evelyn_m_k An “entertaining and affectionate” narrative in the Jack London Tradition. Story of a lone Gray Wolf and his quest for a place in the far-flung forests of the feral North. WOLFBLOOD: A Wild Wolf, A Half-Wild Husky & A Wily Old Trapper
The Human-Animal Alliance (H-AA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to advocating for the power human-animal connection. Through its support of programs nationwide, it’s keeping people and animals together. H-AA is impacting lives — one human-animal connection at a time.
The Human-Animal Alliance’s overheads are privately funded. Every dollar donated by the public goes directly to helping humans and animals. To learn more and support their work, visit https://h-aa.org/donate.
TAGS Animal welfare grants, Human-Animal bond, Human Animal book, Human-Animal connection, her horses, her story, Jackie Ducci, relationships with animals.
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Canada CANZUK News: Australia, United Kingdom, New Zealand – Canadian Patriots – A Cultural Homecoming
“I didn’t ask to be Canadian. I just got lucky!”
Posted Monday, February 3, 2025.
“We share so much in common with the CANZUK nations. Through family ties, history, culture, language and, of course, with the Queen as our common Head of State. So, let’s work to make this Alliance a reality.” – Andrew Rosindell, British Tory MP, September 2, 2021.
I only lived in Yorkshire for four years before we returned to Canada (Mum was a War Bride). But I’ve always loved the idea of a closer relationship with the Mother Country.
I like this idea: Canada joining with Australia, Britain & New Zealand. Same parliamentary system. Same Royal Family. And culture. And language. Same history.
In a few months we’re going to be celebrating the 80th Anniversary. Our Fathers (of us Boomers) had charged the Beaches of Normandy together. Side by side. And after travelling that bloody road to the Rhineland, they liberated western Europe.
Years later Don Cherry said, “The least you can do is wear a poppy.” And was fired from Hockey Night in Canada for his simple patriotic words
Erin O’Toole & Andrew Scheer of our Conservative party had spoken of CANZUK. But I wasn’t listening. My interest then was cultural more than political.
Now I’ve reconsidered.
It’s called CANZUK — or CI (CANZUK International)…
“The four countries we propose are very similar in numerous ways. For example, we share the same head of state, the same language, the same Westminster style parliamentary system. As well as the same common law legal system, similar economic growth rates, and a similar respect for human rights. What we’re advocating is not something out of the ordinary…
“This is something that has been done within the EU, between virtually 30 countries with a population of 500 million citizens, who have the right to live and work freely between each other, and it’s also been done between Australia and New Zealand with the Trans-Tasman Travel Arrangement…
“So what we’re proposing with 4 Commonwealth countries, who have very close Commonwealth ties, is not something completely ‘out there’.” – James Skinner
Darned right!
“A CI alliance would become the second most powerful union in the world behind the EU. Such a union would see CI become a global superpower. Our time has come and to quote Erin O’Toole, it’s ‘a no brainer’.” – Jim Smith, “CANZUK – The Return of the Empire,” LinkedIn
CANZUK: The Free Movement Proposal
“What makes CANZUK unique is how viable and well-thought-out it is on every level. Unlike within the EU, the grouping would not be consolidated through impositional treaties laced with unpleasant footnotes delegating political power to a bureaucratic institution. Freedom of movement would assist meeting labour market demands across the countries, yet this would be prohibited to those with serious criminal records…
“Everything the EU seemed to get wrong about forming unions under a liberal-internationalist pretense, CI proposals seem to get right. They account for social attitudes and the dangers of becoming impositional, eroding national sovereignty. Free movement within the European Union had been widely reviled by the domestic population — and is part of the reason Britain now is set to leave…
“Yet the very same population overwhelmingly favour the same principle, alternatively implemented, across the CI nations. Polling outright majorities in favour in every region.
“Perhaps a reason for this is that while the nations are extremely close culturally, they are also resoundingly similar socio-economically. Despite their distances, the states could have been separated at birth (of course, they do share the same monarch).” – Tom Colsy, FEE – Foundation for Economic Education
If you are English, Scottish, Welsh, Manx, Northern Irish, Aussie, New Zealander — or Canadian — you’ve gotta find out!
What is CANZUK all about?
See “Navigating U.S. Tariffs – The Time For CANZUK Has Come!”
Sacred forest, sacred grove, Celtic Spirituality & Celtic Christianity.
“The trees are tall and pointed like church spires, the trunks venerable with age. May the lightning spare these grand old trees, and the winds play gently through their boughs!”
I’ve always been interested in Church History. And by that I also include physical churches. Ones you could step into, walk around in…
We lived in Yorkshire for a time, when I was a kid. It was the early 50s and times in Post-War England were still hard. But there were some good things. You could travel by steam trains for almost nothing. We used to travel often. Sometimes day trips. Sometimes staying in small country inns. Visiting the English countryside, what Tolkien described as “gardens, trees and unmechanised farmlands.” And old historic buildings.
Mum and Dad thought I’d like the old castles. And I did. But I really found a young fascination in old stone chapels, churches and abbeys. Why, I didn’t know. Had some experiences there I’ve rarely spoken about. (You can read about ’em in my Life & Works…)
Kirklees Priory Gatehouse — once run by Cistercian nuns, and where the dying Robin Hood had shot an arrow to mark his own grave — left a transformative mark on me. (More so my one-time visit to the wondrous York Minster Cathedral.)
“Robin Hood’s grave is through those yews,” said Mum. “Your Dad and I saw it during the War.” The gatehouse was surrounded by big deciduous trees. I remember the yews, dark, green and twisted.
The edges of great forests are how I remember those places.
It was later that I learned that Yorkshire was an old Celtic land. With a seasoning of Nordic. And it was later that I connected the churches and trees. I, too, was Celtic with a bit of Nordic. And that my ancestors came out of the vast, sacred forests.
Here, with help from writers Marlene Affeld and Max Weber, is a post to explain it. There will be surprises. And wonder.
“The Sacred Forest: Trees Are An Essential Part Of Our Life Experience”
Trees are not just a key to the Natural Ecosystem. They’re an essential part of our Life Experience.
Trees enrich our lives simply by just being there. From a majestic individual tree that has historic significance or is simply beautiful, to a quiet grove of greenery, we seek solitude and companionship.
Trees are the longest lived and largest plant form on Earth. And throughout recorded history Trees have been acknowledged as symbols of Power, Wisdom, Fertility and Life.
Our magnificent trees are also symbols of immortality — they live to a considerable age. Pando, a Trembling Aspen located in Utah is considered the world’s oldest living tree. It’s estimated to be over 800,000 years old. Pando is a clonal colony of a single male Quaking Aspen. This massive trees root system covers 107 acres. It’s estimated to weigh in excess of 6,000 tons. Which makes it the heaviest known living organism in the world.
Throughout the world many different species of trees live amazingly long lives. The verified oldest measured ages are:
Norway Spruce (Picea abies) 9,550 years
Baobab (Digitata Adansonia) 6,600 years
Great Basin Bristlecone Pine (Pinus longaeva) 4,844 years
Alerce (Fitzroya cupressoides) 3,622 years
Giant Sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum) 3,266 years
Huon-Pine (Largarostrobos franklinii) 2,500 years
Rocky Mountain Bristlecone Pine (Pinus aristata) 2,435 years
Because of their potential for longevity, trees are frequently planted as living memorials. We become attached to trees that we or those we love have planted and tended.
Trees add beauty and grace to any locale. Blossoms in the spring. Verdant summer foliage. And breathtaking colors in the fall. Trees mark the seasons as they enhance the beauty of world. They make life more pleasurable, peaceful and relaxing. The majesty, endurance and strength of trees have a cathedral-like quality. They help us to experience a primal connection with the earth and our most deeply held cultural and spiritual values.
The Sacred Forest Worldwide
The tree has always been a cultural symbol. Trees are often used to represent nature or the environment itself.
In Central America, the Mayan people believed that the mighty Ceiba trees held up the sky. According to ancient Mayan legends, the downfall of the trees will precipitate the destruction of Mother Earth.
Since ancient times, cultures around the world have honored trees with reverence and respect. Cultures in Australia and Asia regard the trees as mythical ancestors. Trees were often worshipped as the living embodiment of their gods. They were believed to have holy medicinal applications and miraculous healing qualities for the body, mind and spirit.
Celtic Sacred Forest: The Druids of Europe were particularly influenced by trees and believed that trees possessed great mysterious powers.
The Ancient Greeks are also known to have had a highly developed respect for the nobility and power of trees. Painting and pottery from the period display images of enchantment and reverence.
The Greek culture held the Bay Tree in especially high esteem. It was dedicated to their God Apollo and his young son Aesculapius. And was held in sacred honor. Aesculapius was the God of Medicine. Thus the Bay Tree was believed to have healing power and was used in many medical potions.
Built in the mid-12th century as a tribute to the Mother of the King, Ta Prohm Temple in southern Cambodia is the undisputed capital of the Kingdom of the Trees.
The mystical and enchanting jungle temple’s beauty is explored with delight and left with deep regret. It remains virtually untouched by archaeologists except for the clearing of a narrow pathway for visitors. You see it in its natural and pristine state. You can experience the wonder and joy of the early explorers when they first discovered these amazing ancient monuments in the middle of the 19th century.
Wreathed in silvery mist and shrouded by dense jungle, the temple of Ta Prohm is ethereal in every aspect and conjures up a romantic mysterious aura. Banyan, kapok and fig trees spread their gigantic sprawling roots over giant stones. Probing walls and tearing terraces apart as their branches and leaves intertwine to form a lush sheltering canopy over the structures. Trunks of these noble trees twist amongst stone pillars and over cobbled walls.
The strange, haunting charm of the temple trees entwines itself about you as you go. As inescapably as the roots have wound themselves about the walls and towers. When visiting the awe-inspiring Kingdom of the Trees you quickly become aware of how powerfully present and fully alive trees are. And you can not escape the all-encompassing connection trees provide in the intricate and fragile Web of Life.
The Sacred Forest – No Longer Sacred
More than 8000 tree species, 10% of the world’s total, are threatened with extinction. Destruction of forests and woodlands (and unsustainable logging of valuable timber stands) are causing the devastation of many important species. Clearing and burning of our forests leads to increased levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide. A significant contributor to global warming.
It saddens the soul to realize that the majority of the citizens of the Earth are so accustomed to seeing trees that they take them for granted. Forgetting that these noble entities are fundamental to our very existence.
Trees act as the living lungs of the planet, sequestering carbon dioxide and returning to us precious, life giving oxygen.
Trees have numerous aesthetic and economic benefits beyond their important role in carbon sequestration and oxygen production. These living giants offer shelter, filter water, cleanse the air of pollution and moderate the climate.
They help prevent soil erosion as well as providing wildlife habitat, scenic beauty and a plethora of items we use daily. We rely on trees for paper products, building materials, fuel, food, medicine and more.
We still desire abundant forests for our children and grand-children. Trees maintain sustainable soils and control erosion. Retaining soil in place by their root mass. Deflecting wind-driven rain with their canopies. And contributing nutrients with their leaves. Trees are crucial to sustaining and improving the earth’s ecosystem.
Modern Sacred Forest: Trees are the Lungs of the World
Trees cleanse our air and water. From auto and factory emissions and ozone in industrialized areas. And trees absorb toxic pollutants as they recharge ground water and sustain streamflow. Things like fertilizer and pesticide runoff from rural farms. Trees also combat global warming. As trees grow they remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, the major contributor to global warming.
Plant a Forest!
We depend on trees for their nutritional bounty. Fruit and nutmeats are a staple of diets around the world. A fruit tree can live for more than forty years and produce more than 10,000 pounds of fruit. A tree truly gives life. Apples are one of the most popular fruit tree choices. A mature apple tree can produce up to 500 apples in a season.
Consider planting pear, plum, cherry, apricot, orange, lime, lemon or banana trees. Research what will grow well in your local area. Plant and enjoy an organic harvest grown in harmony with nature. Nothing tastes sweeter!
Planting trees saves energy. Trees planted strategically around our homes will decrease cooling costs in summer. And provide a windbreak against the cold winds of winter thus saving on heating expenses.
Depending on species and maturity, the cooling shade of trees can reduce home energy consumption by up to 20%. Air temperature in the vicinity of trees is cooler than that away from trees. The larger the tree, the greater the cooling effect. Tree planting in urban areas moderates the heat-island effect caused by concrete paving and heat absorbing buildings.
Planting trees feels good! It’s immensely satisfying to plant a tree. Making us happy in the knowledge that this gift to the earth will bring joy, shelter and sustenance to our children, grandchildren and countless future generations.
Celebrate Life! Plant A Tree!
Plant trees in your yard. Volunteer with civic and community tree restoration efforts. And contribute to non-profit organizations implementing reforestation.
There’s strength in numbers. Together we can make a difference. Take action by living a green lifestyle to reduce your carbon output. Educate children about protecting our planet. Be part of the solution simply by planting more trees.
“The Sacred Forest: Celtic Spirituality & Celtic Christianity”
Celts are an ancient tribe who inhabited most of the Northern Europe between 800 BC and 400 AD. Their unique culture has always attracted attention. Especially of popular interest is Celtic diversity — and Celtic spirituality. Celtic religion is appreciated and honoured by many Christians, both Catholic and Protestant.
Celts see the necessity of collaboration between people and the earth. As well as between people and the spirits of nature. And the Holy Spirit. Celts believe in the existence of many gods and angels. In their arts, they portrayed them as living beings, not just abstract creations. According to the Celtic understanding of the world, these divine beings can communicate with people in their own mystical way.
Another interesting thing about the Celts is their love of poetry, beauty and creativity. Celtic diversity, which combines mysticism, love of nature and comes from the relational spirituality, is in natural harmony with beauty and poetry. The development of Celtic culture is the way of unique, rich culture. Celtic culture can be compared with a magnificent tree with a lot of branches.
A Forest Culture: Celts used to live in the Sacred Forest
The pre-Christian world was the world of Celts, who worshiped nature. To the Celtic outlook, the land was the great goddess. The rivers were her helpers and they enriched the earth. Celts used to live in forests. Sacred forests where they were close to the nature, learning the language of trees and wisdom of animals.
With the arrival of Christianity, ancient Celts didn’t give up their close ties with nature. They connected their love to nature with the main principles of Christianity. Celtic monks lived in deep forests and wrote their religious works about the gifts of nature.
And Northern Celts kept their ancient traditions involving oak and evergreen trees — and the sacred plants mistletoe and holly.
Why are forests a sacred place?
The most important thing was to understand the divine origin of all things. And God’s existence in nature. Celts saw life as a constantly changing cycle of life and death. Everything moved in a spiral. Observing Nature could teach humankind how the living world worked. Nowadays we have almost lost the awareness of spiral development, making it difficult to gain an understanding of the world.
Life of Celts is an integration of spirit, community and nature. These concepts were a single whole. Returning to these Celtic dogmas can help us understand who we are.
“To the Druidic mind, trees are sentient beings
“The Celts believed a tree’s presence could be felt more keenly at night or after a heavy rain. And that certain people were more attuned to trees and better able to perceive them.
“There’s a special word for this recognition of sentience, mothaitheacht. It was described as a feeling in the upper chest of some kind of energy or sound passing through you.
“It’s possible that mothaitheacht is an ancient expression of a concept that is relatively new to science: infrasound or ‘silent sound.’
“These are sounds pitched below the range of human hearing, which travel great distances by means of long, loping waves. They are produced by large animals, such as elephants, and by volcanoes. And these waves have been measured as they emanate from large trees.”
― Diana Beresford-Kroeger, TO SPEAK FOR THE TREES: My Life’s Journey from Ancient Celtic Wisdom to a Healing Vision of the Forest.
The Sacred Forest of Gaul and Beyond
The Celts used sacred groves, called nemeton in Gaulish, for performing rituals based on Celtic mythology. The deity involved was usually Nemetona — a Celtic goddess. Druids oversaw such rituals.
The remnants of such groves have been found in Germany, Switzerland, Czech Republic and Hungary in Central Europe. And in many sites of ancient Gaul, as well as England and Ireland.
Sacred groves had been plentiful up until the 1st century BC. And then the Romans attacked and conquered Gaul.
One of the best known nemeton sites is that in the Nevet forest near Locronan in Brittany, France. Gournay-sur-Aronde (Gournay-on-Aronde), a village in the Oise department of France, also houses the remains of a nemeton.
Celtic Christians strongly believed in the Holy Trinity.
In the Celtic outlook, the world is created by God who surrounds the entire world with his two arms of love.
The left arm is the spirit and the right one is Christ. Christ is the supreme example of human life. Being close to the Christ meant understanding eternal love and wisdom.
Early Celtic Christians didn’t go to church. They preferred worshipping in small communities and sharing their food, money, work with the representatives of this small group. Celts saw Christ in their neighbour and shared everything with him. They continued their ancestral tradition of worshipping in the forest: in a sacred grove or meadow. Even their first churches were built in the wildwood.
So, to sum up, Celtic spirituality is characterised by love of nature, art and poetry…
Relationship between saints and gods. Respect for Mary and the importance of Liturgy. Union of secular and sacred. The power of abbots and monasteries. Ancient calendar system for celebrating Easter. And closeness between natural and supernatural; importance of family and kinship.
The Celtic spiritual motherland is Ireland and territories around it. Ireland’s isolation kept the Romans at bay. Monasteries were places of holy atmosphere, more like big tribal villages. They housed monks, slaves, freemen, upper class men and women and priesthood. Some monasteries were situated in isolated places. Others were the crossroads of main towns.
Celts also made invaluable strides in the development and making of the educational system. They took part in the spreading of the literacy among Ireland and other Celtic lands even during the “Dark Ages.”
Celtic liturgy started its existence in ancient times. That liturgy included components that proved eternal, still existing today.
Their main themes are monasticism, closeness between God and nature, importance of the family and kinship, storytelling, love and respect of the Mother of God, peace and justice, hospitality and education.
Irish monks are still famous for their inestimable work as educators of Europe.
Many modern seasonal festivals have Celtic origin. Many sources told of assemblies of Druids. The building of the Imperial temple at Lugdunum was probably dedicated to the Feast of Lugh. The lack of dates makes it difficult to determine the origin of some traditions and feasts that are rooted in the Celtic culture.
Votive offerings are a kind of Celtic worshipping that helps us to dive deeper in Celtic outlook and understanding reasons and motives of these ceremonies. Workers and artificers were attached to big temples. And produced special holy souvenirs and mass-produced offerings. They were at first made from wood, later from clay and metal.
The rebirth of Celtic culture is growing stronger and there are a lot of groups practising Celtic religion.
One of the most popular religious groups, Neo-Pagan Druids of Ar n’Draiocht Fein takes the basis of the Celtic religion and combines them with features of Indo-European cultures. Other groups such as “Celtic Wicca,” “Celtic Magic” and others are trying to revitalize Celtic culture.
Celtic religion gained its popularity among people because of its generality and eternity. It advocates main principles of humanity: love and respect for family and kin. As well as love of nature, poetry and other kinds of art. Celtic spirituality assumes communication with God and with spirits that are closely connected with nature. It combines natural and supernatural and pictures God as a supreme being.
The esoteric traditions of Celtic spirituality allow us to develop our inner capacities and contact many resources for healing and wisdom. We may develop a relationship with Brigit, who used to be a goddess “of the abundant earth and life-giving sun.” Later Brigit became a Christian saint. Or Morgan of the Isle of Avalon, known for her skills in herbal medicine.
Celtic spirituality is the way to opening supernatural powers for those who believe.
Max Weber is a writer of deeply researched and contemplated articles. See The Articles of Max Weber.
“Sacred groves, sacred woods, or sacred forests are groves of trees that have special religious importance within a particular culture.” See Sacred Grove.
TAGS: Why are forests a sacred place? Celtic Christianity, Celtic spirituality, sacred forest, sacred groves meaning, sacred trees, the forest, the woods, deciduous forest animals, temperate forest animals, forest ecosystem.
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TOP 10 POLICE DOG BREEDS: Be a Police K9 Handler – Adopt a Police Dog Dropout
“It takes a special officer to become a police dog handler. It also takes a special animal to become a police dog. Some breeds are certainly better than others. Even within the most popular canine breeds, not all dogs make the grade. Which is why most departments use dogs breeds and raised specifically to do police work.” [1]
TOP 10 POLICE DOG BREEDS
German Shepherds
Belgian Malinois
Bloodhound
Dutch Shepherd
Bouvier des Flandres
Doberman Pinscher
Labrador Retriever
Beagle
American Pit Bull Terrier
Boxer
Intelligence, loyalty and size have a lot to do with which breeds make good, effective Police Dogs. Although some dogs specialize in one area.
The little Beagle, for instance, has a supersensitive sense of smell. They can sniff drugs and explosives with amazing efficiency. Their lesser size can be an advantage in searching smaller spaces.
Labrador Retrievers may seem too peaceful to make to make a successful Police K9. But their intelligence and willingness to please make them perfect sniffer dogs and Search & Rescuers.
Like the Beagle, the easy-going shaggy Bouvier des Flandres has an enhanced sense of smell and a drive to please its handler.
The American Pit Bull Terrier has a reputation of being too aggressive. But they’re less expensive to purchase. They’re easy to train. And they love being part of a team — responding instantly to a handler on the other end of a leash.
TRAINING POLICE DOGS
Each day, the role of working dogs throughout the world becomes more demanding. These animals are used for tracing criminal links and have been useful in solving various criminal cases. They’re usually accompanied by a law officer to the scene of the crime.
Due to their uniqueness, these dogs are given special care and are kept in specifically built dog houses.
In many jurisdictions the intentional injury or killing of a police service dog is a serious crime. So the perpetrator is subjected to harsh penalties. In some cases the killing or injury of police service animals are considered to be equal to the killing or injuring a police officer.
Furthermore, a police service dog killed while on duty is traditionally given a full police funeral or burial, similar to that for a law officer.
Some of the functions performed by police service dogs are as follows:
1. Police order enforcement dog
In this case these dogs are used to enforce public order by chasing and holding suspects, or detaining suspects.
2. Tracking
Connected to locating of suspects. Or finding missing persons and objects.
3. Detecting illicit objects
These dogs are used to detect illicit substances such as drugs or explosives which may be carried by a person.
4. Cadaver dogs
They’re dogs trained in detecting the odor of decomposing bodies. Dog’s noses are so sensitive that they are even capable of detecting bodies that are under water.
Police service dogs need to be trained professionally and proper care must be taken so that they can be useful during police investigation.
Equal care should also be taken in training police service dog handlers.
It should be taken into consideration that the functioning of dogs is different from human behavior. Therefore, it becomes necessary that the dog handler is professionally trained in understanding the behavior of their animal partner. In a wide range of circumstances.
A Dog handler is a special police officer who is in charge of the training and handling of well trained dogs.
The level of training and certification for police dog handlers and their charges is growing. There are various institutes which impart training of police K9 handlers.
Becoming a police service dog handler doesn’t require any formal certification. But an apprenticeship under an established handler.
And an adherence to a code of ethics is important. Police work is a combination of proud tradition and modern forensic techniques. That applies to professional K9 handlers. [2]
ADOPT POLICE DOG DROPOUTS
You can adopt “Failed” police dogs. Retired and “Failed” police service K9’s are often put out for sale. Usually, they are healthy animals with all their vet papers up to date.
“Being a service dog is a big job, and not all pups are cut out for it. The reasons are either health-related or behavior-related. Health-wise, canines may suffer from eye issues like cataracts, joint problems, or have food or other allergies that make it difficult for them to be on top of their game at all times. Behaviorally, things like too much energy, too much friendliness with strangers, or difficulties on a leash can disqualify a dog from service training.” [3]
Learn more about Police Dogs. My two most popular Police Dog Posts are:
TAGS: Adopt a police Dog, top 10 police dog breeds, adopt police dog dropout, adopt police dog dropouts Canada, dogs, police dog dropouts for sale. Police dog name breed, police dog name breed, be a Police Dog handler, dogs, K9, K9 Handler, Police dog handlers, police officer, service dogs, service dog, dog handlers.
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Bears in native culture and bear meaning, spiritual and cultural.
BEAR MYTHOLOGY & FOLKLORE Bears in Native American, Celtic and German Culture
Bears live in the forest.
I know, because I’ve seen enough of them over the years in our Northern Appalachians. Crunching through bushes. Grumbling sometimes at my presence. Eating blueberries and wild raspberries with enraptured faces. Scratching their backs on the trees.
I’ve loved their presence.
Wherever there were forests, there were bears. Those of us of Forest Cultures — First Nations, Celtic, Germanic and Nordic — know of Bears. As do MANY other worldwide cultures.
And to all of those Human societies, there were Sacred Bears.
Discover the profound symbolism of bears across various cultures. Highlighting their roles as emblems of strength, spiritual guides, and protectors. This article delves into the historical and cultural significance of bears. It explores how they have been revered and symbolized in traditions around the world.
Here, from gifted writer Lisa Jeeves, is a great Guest Blog article.
“Understanding the Symbolism of the Bear” by Lisa Jeeves
The Bear as a Cultural Icon
Bears have held a significant place in the mythology and spirituality of numerous cultures throughout history. In many traditions, bears are seen not just as wild animals but as important symbolic figures with various meanings attached to them.
A Symbol of Strength and Courage
Historically, bears have been admired for their strength and bravery. Native American tribes, particularly those in the Northern regions like the Inuit, have regarded the bear as a powerful totem animal. These tribes believe that the bear has a special connection to the earth. And possesses qualities that humans can learn from, such as resilience and endurance in the face of adversity.
Spiritual and Healing Connections
In many cultures, bears are seen as more than just physical beings. They are carriers of spiritual wisdom and healing powers. The Ainu people of Japan, for instance, practiced a ritual called “Iomante.” Where they believed sending a bear’s spirit back to the heavens brought blessings and good health to their community.
Bears in European Traditions
In Europe, the symbolism of bears has been complex and varied. Archaeological findings across Europe have uncovered bear remains buried with human remains. Which suggested a deep, spiritual connection between humans and bears dating back millennia.
The Vikings wore bear skins into battle. They believed this would imbue them with the bear’s ferocity and protection. Similarly, Celtic traditions associated the bear with the sun and sovereignty. They often depicted warrior gods and kings with bear motifs.
Bear Mythology in Germany
Among the ancient Germanic peoples who spread from Scandinavia to most of Europe from the 19th century BC, bears were considered an emblem of strength, courage and invincibility. Their ancestral totem animal.
Bears have been a symbol of strength, courage, and protection in German culture for centuries. The bear is especially associated with Berlin, where it has been a symbol of the city since the Middle Ages.
The Bear as a Protector
The protective aspect of the bear is evident in its frequent role as a guardian in folklore and myth. For example, in some Native American stories, bears are portrayed as protectors of the forests and their inhabitants. This protective trait is also mirrored in how some modern societies view and conserve bear populations. Recognizing their critical role in maintaining ecological balance.
Bears in Modern Symbolism
Today, the bear continues to be a potent symbol in many cultures. Often representing national strength and resilience. Russia and California, for example, both feature bears on their flags and emblems. Underscoring the bear’s ongoing symbolic power.
Bear Mythology: A Conclusion
Understanding the symbolism of the bear offers a richer perspective on this majestic creature. Enhancing the experience of observing them in the wild or learning about them in cultural contexts. Whether seen as a symbol of strength, a spiritual guide, or a protector, the bear’s presence in human mythology and spirituality is a testament to its profound impact on human thought and belief systems across the globe.
Bear Mythology Today
By exploring the multifaceted roles bears have played in human culture, we gain insights not only into the animal itself. But also into the human societies that have revered it.
– Lisa Jeeves
Are YOU as fascinated by Bear Mythology as I am?
If so, you’ve got to read my popular short story “THE BOY WHO WAS RAISED BY BEARS.” A Traditional Native American Animal Story & Folktale Retold.
Talking bears and human children adopted and raised by loving mother bears are common story themes in both Old and New World oral traditions. Even J R R Tolkien wrote about both Beowulf and “Bear’s Son Tales in European folklore.”
“Bears, like other animals, may symbolize nations. The Eurasian brown bear has been used to personify Russia since the early 19th century. · In 1911, the British…” See Cultural depictions of bears.
“Symbolism of the bear. Positive symbolic meanings associated with the bear include: Strength. Confidence. Protective Power.” See Bear Symbolism Across Cultures.
“In many cultures, the bear has been revered as a symbol of motherhood and nurturing, embodying the virtues of protection and provision. Fiercely…” See Bear Spirit Animal | Meaning.
BEAR MYTHOLOGY & FOLKLORE Bears in Native American, Celtic and German Culture
Lisa Jeeves is a writer of well-crafted, well-researched articles. Among her articles are “From Jungle to Beach: Discover Malaysia’s Wildlife.” “Saving the Landbirds of the Galapagos Islands.” And “The Intriguing Dance of the Blue-footed Booby.” Source: Free Guest Posting Articles from ArticlesFactory.com.
Early Mountie novels and story collections — books for free online fiction.
MOUNTIE FICTION Royal Canadian Mounted Police Online Books for Free
“I’m Bernice Gallegher from the Lazy G Ranch. Some of that damn Yankee bunch down at Crow’s Nest has been running off our stock. One of our old punchers, the darned renegade, recognized me and chased me out.”
She paused for breath. Sergt. Childress waited anxiously for her next word. The Crow’s Nest renegades over in Montana and their particular connection with the rustling of stock out of Fire Weed was the detail which would take him into mufti in the next few days.
“Running me out of the Nest wasn’t enough,” went on the girl whose mane looked like flaming gold in the moonlight. “Been chasing me all afternoon — running me ragged. They’re right behind me now, and my horse is all in. Any wonder I thanked the good God for meeting up with a Mountie?”
For no part of a second did the Mountie doubt the girl’s story. And there came confirmation thereof in the distant thud of many hoofs. To get the flame-haired youngling out of danger zone became his first consideration.
“We’ll swap horses,” he suggested, swinging from the silver beast’s saddle.
“Off that bay, miss, and on your way. Meet me at Soda Springs anytime to-morrow and we’ll trade back. Mount the silver beast. Quick!” he directed.
“But, sergeant, there are five of them!” she cried. “I counted, looking back from the top of the hill, just the other side of the boundary.”
“You heard me, girl,” he snarled, a tone that few had dared disobey. “Make dust away from here.”
Bernice Gallegher watched his square-shouldered back, upon the scarlet coat on which the moon was playing so vividly, as he strode down the road to face, single-handed, the wild, rough-riding quintet who had followed the supposed boy, intent upon a necktie-party.
For no fraction of a second had she thought of accepting his generous offer — considered making “dust” away from her Providence-sent protector. Like a streak, she took after him.
The galloping horses of the outlaw posse pounded nearer and nearer. Sergt. Childress set himself squarely in the road, ready for King’s-name confrontation. The pad-pad of the girl’s rushing feet caused him to turn.
“You — here?” he grumbled, as though disbelieving that his order had been disobeyed. “Thought I told you—”
“Two guns are better than one against five,” she said, panting.
She added, “It’s my battle you’re fighting and I’ve the right to help you shoot it out.” From somewhere about her boy clothes she whipped a handgun.
“Too late,” the sergeant groaned, as he saw the lead rider of the posse top the rise of the Medicine Line. “Too late for a get-away. Behind me!”
Childress would have made a perfect target as he stood mid-trail, the moon multiplying the brilliance of his uniform. But the weird light also showed the raiders what he was. Perhaps some of the band had felt the steel of the Mounted before. At any rate, his sharp “Who goes?” brought the girl’s pursuers to a stop.
“We’re chasing a hawse thief,” drawled one of the interlopers, possibly the leader. “Let us pass an’ we’ll get him…”
from THE LONG ARM OF THE MOUNTED by James French Dorrance.
NOTE: Dorrance’s Mountie novel NEVER FIRE FIRST is also available for free.
MOUNTIE FICTION Royal Canadian Mounted Police Online Books for Free
The 275 few good men of the North-West Mounted Police had hardly arrived in the Canadian West, when stories were being written about them.
Not many years passed before former members of the Scarlet Riders were telling yarns based on their own proud exploits.
Roger Pocock, originally from Wales, joined the NWMP, serving during the North-West Rebellion. His best known work of fiction is THE CHEERFUL BLACKGUARD. In the novel, José de la Mancha y O’Brien joins the Force, and tells us his adventures during the Rebellion. A strange, sardonic romp.
BENTON OF THE ROYAL MOUNTED was written by Ralph S Kendall. Kendall served with the Royal North-West Mounted for eight years. He was stationed in Calgary, where his two novels were set. I’ve called his BENTON “A masterwork. And worth hunting down for your Canadiana bookshelves. A must for Canadian Patriots.” See Book Review.
Ralph Connor created the fictional character type he called “The True Northman, Strong and Free.”
The Reverend Charles William Gordon, writing as Ralph Connor, released his CORPORAL CAMERON OF THE NORTH WEST MOUNTED POLICE: A Tale of the MacLeod Trail in 1912. And he put out it’s sequel, THE PATROL OF THE SUNDANCE TRAIL in 1914.
In the way that Owen Wister’s THE VIRGINIAN created the classic Western genre, Ralph Connor’s CORPORAL CAMERON and SUNDANCE TRAIL created the archetypal Mountie genre. Connor’s belief in Muscular Christianity, the Scottish-Canadian concept of “Law and Justice” and his Mountie hero’s almost religious zeal for policework, created the Mythic Mountie.
American James Oliver Curwood was another popular Northwestern writer. Many of his Mountie novels hit the best seller lists.
Described as “an author, screen-writer and conservationist, Michigan-born Curwood attended Owosso’s Central High School until tenth grade when he was expelled….
“Curwood wrote 33 novels during his lifetime. [1]
“His first Mountie novel was PHILIP STEELE OF THE ROYAL NORTHWEST MOUNTED POLICE. RIVER’S END (also a Mountie story) was his first novel to sell more than 100,000 copies in its first edition.”
Other Mountie novels available as online books for free are THE FLAMING FOREST and THE GOLDEN SNARE.
“Most of Curwood’s books were adventure tales set in the Canadian North country. Many of his books were picked up by motion picture companies and made into large motion pictures. Some were also published in foreign languages.”
In 1920, The North-West Mounted was amalgamated with the national Dominion Police, renamed the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
The Twenties saw the Royal Canadian Mounted become mechanized. But remote areas, such as the Rocky Mountains, were still using horseback patrols. And the High Arctic saw the continuation of long dogsled patrols.
Modern writers were still telling thrilling stories in the Northwestern manner.
An exciting example of this was THE LONG PATROL: A Tale Of The Mounted Police by Albert M Treynor.
Albert M Treynor (1884-1948) was a writer of short stories, novels and Hollywood screenplays. He also worked as a drama critic for newspapers in Chicago and New York City.
Born in Kane, Iowa, Treynor published most of his novels in the 1920’s and worked on movie scripts in the 30’s. His co-authored screenplays were mainly comedies. It’s a Small World, starring Spencer Tracy (1935), The Rainmakers (1935) and Dancing Co-Eds, starring Lana Turner (1939) were his most successful projects. Dancing Co-Eds was based on Treynor’s own short story that had appeared in American Magazine the year before. The Jane Withers-starring Always in Trouble was also based on a Treynor magazine story.
Treynor is best remembered today by fans of Northwestern fiction. Besides THE LONG PATROL: A Tale Of The Mounted Police, his Mountie novels are ROGUES OF THE NORTH, THE TRAIL FROM DEVIL’S COUNTRY and SNOW-BLIND.
Completely garbed in Sergeant Hardy’s uniform, he was remarkably like the officer, in figure. Only the face was different, and that would be partly concealed by the fur parka hood.
“In this uniform I can get to Montreal, without pursuit. There, I can secure other clothing, draw funds from the bank, and get to the border. From now, until I reach Montreal, I’m Sergeant Porter Hardy!”
from CODE OF THE MOUNTED by Floria Howe Bruess.
Floria Howe Bruess became a popular writer in the 1920’s and 30’s.
She wrote historical and romance stories. Floria set many of her early ones in the Canadian Northcountry. Most were printed in Argosy All-Story Weekly, Brief Stories Magazine and Street & Smith’s Love Story Magazine.
Her short stories included “Faith,” printed in three magazines. And “Saga of the Forest,” “On the Saskatchewan,” “What a Dog!,” “Moon of the Great Wind,” “Under the Flaming Aurora,” “Little Imp,” “His Mother’s Son,” “A Pretty Good Dog,” “Heart of the Wild” and “Northland Love.”
HEART AND SWORDS was an Historical novel set in the Seventeenth Century, about King James of England defending his crown from the Pretender, William of Orange. Floria’s novels with a Canadian setting include CHILD OF THE NORTH, THANKS TO THE R. C. M. and THE TRAIL’S END.
And her thrilling novelette “Code of the Mounted” is available to read for free.
Other writers of Mountie Books for Free…
Other writers of Mountie Books for Free are Luke Allan (THE RETURN OF BLUE PETE and THE LONE TRAIL). Ridgwell Cullum (THE LAW-BREAKERS). Harwood Steele (SPIRIT-OF-IRON — Manitou-Pewabic — An Authentic Novel of the North-West). And Bertrand W Sinclair (RAW GOLD: A Novel).
Scotland-born Bertrand W Sinclair was raised in British Columbia. His first novel was RAW GOLD, published to much acclaim in 1908. His next two books drew a fascinated following: THE LAND OF FROZEN SUNS and NORTH OF FIFTY-THREE.
And James French Dorrance wasn’t the only author to use the title THE LONG ARM OF THE MOUNTED!
In 1948, American author William Byron Mowery released a collection of his magazine stories also called THE LONG ARM OF THE MOUNTED. The stories were titled “The Mystery of the Ghost Gold,” “Mannikin Talk,” “A Relic of the Vikings” and “Shepherd of the Storm.”
One of the Top 10 Mountie writers, editors called Mowery “The Zane Grey of the Canadian Northwest.”
MOUNTIE FICTION Royal Canadian Mounted Police Online Books for Free
Did you like this Mountie Fiction Free Books Post?
YOU MUST SEE “THE WRITERS OF THE NORTH-WEST MOUNTED POLICE” — MY MOST POPULAR LITERARY HISTORY POST:
“Thanks for a wonderful in-depth article on Mountie fiction. I’m a big fan of the Mounties and I really enjoyed the amount of details you provided and found many, many more books to put on my wish list.” Jack Wagner
“I just discovered your blog recently. I’m all for anything that increases people’s knowledge about these older, mostly forgotten authors. That post on Mountie fiction is great!” Western writer James Reasoner
An expansive study of the writers who created the magnificent Mythology of our North-West Mounted Police. My Top 10 Mountie Fiction Writers in some detail, including Ralph Connor, James Oliver Curwood and William Byron Mowery. And a look at many other authors! Lavishly illustrated with breathtaking book and pulp magazine cover art. FREE TO READ ==> The GREATEST AUTHORS OF NORTH-WEST MOUNTED POLICE FICTION
“No other nation owes its primary Mythology to such a mix of international writers! Four Americans, three Canadians, an Australian, an Englishman and a Norwegian. The Aussie and Norwegian served as Mounties.” Brian Alan Burhoe
Yes! You can read the Mounted Police novels featured in this post as Online Books for FREE!
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“Everybody should have a shelter dog. It’s good for the soul.” – Paul Shaffer
ADOPT A SHELTER DOG MONTH: Drew Barrymore, Dave Bautista & ASPCA
A popular online search is “Adopt a dog near me” or “Find a shelter dog.” And no wonder! Dogs are all about love and companionship. Some folks are looking for a specific breed. Labrador retriever. Pomeranian. Even Goldendoodle puppies. Others will take a family mutt — a unique and happy dog with lots of smiles and tail wags.
“I don’t care what breed it is,” explained shelter dog enthusiast Karen Hutchinson. “As long as our new doggie gives us love! If it’s a mixed breed, a DNA test would soon reveal its ancestry.”
Last year, the ASPCA (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) announced its collaboration with distinguished actors, animal advocates, and pet parents Drew Barrymore and Dave Bautista. Together, they raised awareness and encouraged support for dog adoption and fostering during October’s Adopt a Shelter Dog Month.
Throughout last October, Drew and Dave posted shelter dogs from the ASPCA on their social media channels.
Which helped find them loving homes. It was announced: “This year, the ASPCA, Drew and Dave are promoting The Shelter Dog Rescue campaign. Which showcases the impact that adopting or fostering a pet can have on shelters nationwide by creating space for more animals in need.”
“We are thankful for the support of Drew Barrymore and Dave Bautista. They have proven to be compassionate ambassadors for dogs in shelters,” said Matt Bershadker, ASPCA president and CEO.
“This Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, we hope Drew and Dave’s efforts will inspire the public to adopt or foster a pet.”
“Thus making an impact that ripples throughout shelters nationwide while creating space for more dogs in need.”
Her Shelter Dog! Drew Barrymore with her rescue dog Douglas.
Drew Barrymore is an esteemed actress, talk show host and life-long supporter of animal welfare causes. And she’s a pet mom to seven adopted animals.
They include a dog named Douglas, four cats, a bearded dragon, and a snake. In 2016, the ASPCA honored Drew with the ASPCA Compassion Award. The award recognizes noteworthy individuals in entertainment and the arts who have made outstanding contributions to animal welfare and shelter dogs.
“Douglas and I are thrilled to partner with the ASPCA to raise awareness about dog adoption and fostering,” Drew said.
“Shelters across the country are full. The work they do on the front lines every day is critical in caring for thousands of animals in need of loving homes. This October let’s unite to make a difference for amazing dogs like Piper and Korbean. When you adopt or foster, you create a ripple effect that helps save even more animals nationwide.”
Dave Bautista’s passions have both personally and professionally led him from a career in wrestling to acting and animal advocacy. He’s a well-known dog-lover who voices his support for pet adoption and animal protection. Dave is the proud pet parent of four adopted pit bulls and is a consistent champion for the breed.
“In October,” said a press release, “Drew and Dave will be calling on the public to adopt or foster a dog during Adopt a Shelter Dog Month.”
The release quoted some of the staggering numbers. “Shelters across the country are at capacity, with 3.2 million dogs entering animal shelters last year. And only 2.2 million dogs adopted. With limited resources and too many animals in need, shelters are working overtime. Struggling to find loving homes for the animals in their care. Including an increasing proportion of animals with greater medical and behavioral needs who stay longer in the shelter.”
Dave Bautisa said, “Every day, my rescue dogs Ollie, Maggie, Penny, and Talulah, show me why all shelter pets deserve compassion, care, and unconditional love. They’ve changed my life in the best way as much as I’ve changed theirs.”
Dave continued, “By choosing to adopt, I not only gave them second chances at life. I also helped create room at my local shelter for other rescue pets to find good, loving families. A positive future for shelter pets starts with someone like you, or me.”
Learn more about adopting a dog through the ASPCA’s programs. And find a shelter in your local community. Visit ASPCA.org/Adopt.
If you’ve searched for “adopt a dog near me,” then don’t wait for Adopt a Shelter Dog Month 2025. Start you search today!
ADOPT A SHELTER DOG MONTH: Drew Barrymore, Dave Bautista & ASPCA
Do You love Dog Stories?
Read this story of the Wolf who rescued a Husky!
READ WOLFBLOOD — MY MOST POPULAR ANIMAL YARN: “I LOVE THE HAPPY ENDING!”
“I JUST READ WOLFBLOOD AGAIN FOR GOOD MEASURE. ONE FOR ANY WOLF LOVER. ENJOYED IT BUT WISH IT WAS A FULL LENGTH NOVEL.” – Gina Chronowicz @ginachron
“GREAT SHORT STORY! DOES REMIND ME OF CALL OF THE WILD, WHITE FANG…” – Evelyn @evelyn_m_k An “entertaining and affectionate” narrative in the Jack London Tradition. Story of a lone Gray Wolf and his quest for a place in the far-flung forests of the feral North. WOLFBLOOD: A Wild Wolf, A Half-Wild Husky & A Wily Old Trapper
ADOPT A SHELTER DOG MONTH: Drew Barrymore, Dave Bautista & ASPCA
About the ASPCA®
The ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) was founded in 1866. It was the first animal welfare organization to be established in North America. Today it serves as the nation’s leading voice for vulnerable and victimized animals. It’s committed to preventing cruelty to dogs, cats, equines, and farm animals throughout the United States.
The ASPCA assists animals in need through on-the-ground disaster and cruelty interventions. As well as behavioral rehabilitation, animal placement, legal and legislative advocacy. And the advancement of the sheltering and veterinary community through research, training, and resources. For more information, visit www.ASPCA.org, and follow the ASPCA on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok.
“I should get a dog. I would get a shelter dog. It doesn’t matter. I would probably get a three-legged dog no one else wanted.” – Simon Cowell
SOURCE: ASPCA, PRNewswire & Civilized Bears. Posted January 7, 2025.
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READ WOLFBLOOD — MY MOST POPULAR ANIMAL YARN: “I LOVE THE HAPPY ENDING!”
If so, you’ve got to read my popular short story “THE BOY WHO WAS RAISED BY BEARS.” A Traditional Native Canadian Animal Story & Folktale Retold.
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RAVEN CARVING. This is a magnificent Pacific Northwest Native art carving of a raven by Alfie Fishgap, who is of Coast Salish Nation, BC background.
Trees have numerous aesthetic and economic benefits beyond their important role in carbon sequestration and oxygen production. These living giants offer shelter, filter water, cleanse the air of pollution and moderate the climate.
“The Celts believed a tree’s presence could be felt more keenly at night or after a heavy rain. And that certain people were more attuned to trees and better able to perceive them. 
Each day, the role of working dogs throughout the world becomes more demanding. These animals are used for tracing criminal links and have been useful in solving various criminal cases. They’re usually accompanied by a law officer to the scene of the crime.
A Dog handler is a special police officer who is in charge of the training and handling of well trained dogs.
The Reverend Charles William Gordon, writing as Ralph Connor, released his CORPORAL CAMERON OF THE NORTH WEST MOUNTED POLICE: A Tale of the MacLeod Trail in 1912. And he put out it’s sequel, THE PATROL OF THE SUNDANCE TRAIL in 1914.
“Curwood wrote 33 novels during his lifetime. [1]
Albert M Treynor (1884-1948) was a writer of short stories, novels and Hollywood screenplays. He also worked as a drama critic for newspapers in Chicago and New York City.
Other writers of Mountie Books for Free are Luke Allan (THE RETURN OF BLUE PETE and THE LONE TRAIL). Ridgwell Cullum (THE LAW-BREAKERS). Harwood Steele (SPIRIT-OF-IRON — Manitou-Pewabic — An Authentic Novel of the North-West). And Bertrand W Sinclair (RAW GOLD: A Novel).
YOU MUST SEE “THE WRITERS OF THE NORTH-WEST MOUNTED POLICE” — MY MOST POPULAR LITERARY HISTORY POST:
