Lessons From Dolly Parton’s "Cracker Jack"
- Nov 9, 2025
- 2 min read
Updated: May 17
Welcome to Pet Talk, an occasional column about homeless pets and related topics.
Today’s topic is about the unfortunate plight of too many pets in this Valley—so please consider how you can help!
To set the mood, how about some lyrics from Dolly Parton’s 1974 song “Cracker Jack,” which could easily apply to the many homeless pets in this valley!
“Once I had a little dog
I called him Cracker Jack
He had a spot around one eye
That looked just like a patch
His legs were way too long
And he was awkward as could be
He wasn’t much to look at
But he looked alright to me.
I found him by the riverbank
Just wandering about
He was cold and hungry
And his ribs were sticking out
I snapped my fingers, whistled
When he came, I picked him up
I was just a kid and Cracker Jack was just a pup. I took him home and fed him
'til he couldn't eat no more
I took him to my room
And put a blanket on the floor . . .”
Such lyrics might sound familiar to the many kind-hearted souls who have adopted homeless pets over the years.
So if you’re seeking one or more loving companions please schedule a meet-and-greet by phoning Flathead County Animal Shelter at (406) 752-1310.
And did you know about the low adoption fees and other incentives at Flathead County Animal Shelter? For example, Flathead Shelter Friends offers a Senior Pet Voucher, which pays up to $350 toward veterinary care for 7+ year-old adopted pets. For more information please contact Flathead County Animal Shelter at 406-752-1310 or visit https://flatheadcounty.gov/department-directory/animal.
Pet Talk is produced by Flathead Shelter Friends Inc., an all-volunteer 501(c)(3) nonprofit. For more information visit www.flatheadshelterfriends.org.
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