Don’t Jump Back From Black

Black Dog Syndrome

Did you know that black dogs are the most likely to be euthanized at shelters because they are less adoptable? Known as the black dog syndrome, noir canines have an uphill battle to find loving homes.

It’s a fact that lightly colored dogs are more appealing to the general public. People tend to be afraid of black dogs, and some perhaps fall prey to folklore and superstition. Others just feel that black dogs are too “common” looking. So prevalent is the black dog syndrome that rescue groups (BlackPearldogs.com) have sprung up just to help these poor creatures overcome their disadvantage.

In addition to color being a deterrent, size can also be a limiting factor for dogs seeking a forever home. Imagine the “double trouble” of being a big black dog! There are many beautiful sweet black dogs looking for homes, so next time you have the opportunity to adopt a pet, remember the plight of this select group.

Myth-conceptions of the Black Cat

October is the season for Jack-O-Lanterns, ghoulish costumes and outrageous amounts of candy … Yes, it’s almost time for Halloween! The bizarre traditions of this holiday have fueled an unfortunate superstition towards the black cat, which has become the poster child of bad luck.

Almost every tale about witches involves black cats or kittens. How did the small, endearing, domestic cat become so associated with witchcraft and the evil arts?

In ancient times, black cats were viewed as lucky, but in the 15th century, black cats experienced a reversal of fortune. Witch hunts were taking place across Europe in an effort to stamp out pagan religions. These thoughts followed the pilgrims of early America to our shores, and fueled the hysteria of the Salem Witch Trials of 1692. Throughout these time periods, many held the belief that all witches kept familiars. These familiars were small creatures such as frogs, birds, or snakes and very often cats. Folklore held that witches used the power of their familiars in casting evil spells. 

Many elderly people led solitary, isolated lives, with only a pet cat for company. If that cat was black, a color associated with magic and mystery, was that not proof that the unfortunate victim was a witch or warlock?

Ludicrously biased trials were held, and the accused were inevitably found guilty. Including hanging, drowning and burning at the stake, cruel executions of both the witches and their feline companions were performed.

In the present-day, thoughts about black cats vary according to different parts of the world. In the U.S. or most European countries, a black cat crossing in front of you is believed to bring bad luck.  However, in Germany the bad omen is believed to be wrought only if the cat crosses your path from right to left.  In contrast, if the cat passes you from left to right you will be granted favorable times ahead.  And in the farmlands of Latvia, finding a black kitty in their grain silos is a symbol of the spirit of Rungis, the God of Harvests.

Other myths include the belief that chasing a black cat out of your house will ensure that your home will not be lucky and that stroking the fur of a black feline will bring you both health and wealth. In some fishing communities, the fishermen's wives keep their cats indoors in order to keep their men folk safe from peril whilst at sea.

I think it’s fair to say that it’s time to change the witch hunting mentality of the past and move on using our 21st century good sense. Black cats and dogs are just as lovable, stable and affectionate as other hued animals. The fact that they are black should not deter a potential pet owner from granting these misunderstood animals the home that they deserve.