'How much is that doggy in the window?' Appropriate today?

If you're a fan of popular music from the "fifties", of course you will remember one of the most celebrated songs, recorded in 1952 by Patti Page. "How Much is that Doggie in the Window?" hit the top of the charts, taking the number one spot in 1953.

To refresh your memories, the song was about an adorable little dog on display for sale in a pet store window. The first lines of the song are, "How much is that doggy in the window? The one with the waggily tail. How much is that doggie in the window? I do hope that doggy's for sale."

Photo credit: China Daily
I will bet my bottom dollar that just the opening verse more than likely inspired lots of folks to quickly visit their local pet store to purchase a perky pooch. No one really wondered from where these puppies originated, nor gave it a second thought. But as I gave it more consideration, I began to wonder what the public's reaction would be today.

What inspired me to write this item was promoted by an email I received the other day from a popular music website. It invited readers to "take a trip down memory lane" and rate the song and give feedback. The site additionally shared with their readers that the song is one of the staff's favorite "golden oldies". But as I watched the video, listening to Patti Page extolling the virtues of the cute little doggy, I started feeling that their high praises for the song was really not "politically correct".

It is not necessary to dwell upon how countless pet lovers have already become increasingly aware and sensitized to the inhumane methods employed to produce the countless number of puppies and kittens for sale whose final journey ends them up prominently showcased in pet stores. These pets for sale are often confined in a tiny wire cages or on exhibit as window attractions unprotected in the hot sun.

But fortunately, puppy and kitten mills, including back yard breeders, are under the gun thanks to the innumerable animal protection organizations whose primary mission is to raise public awareness about the deplorable and cruel conditions to which these animals are subjected. These institutions work tirelessly and passionately to get these mills shut down, with many of these breeders brought up on charges of cruelty to animals.
After you watch the video uploaded to YouTube by Rwlf and listen to the song with an "educated" ear, you may share some of the same feelings and thoughts that I had.

If this Patti Page smash best seller was first introduced today on the airwaves, would it quickly soar to number one on the "hit parade?" Leave a comment and share your opinions.