I was always a cat person, and it broke my heart to go to shelters and see 80+ cats packed into a room the size of a walk-in closet, once with 8 in one cage. My husband Paul was shocked the first time he went with me. We have 2 cat babies. Then in 2011 we also added 2 dog babies to our furry family. Both were also rescues.
We visit the dog park about 6 days a week, and it is connected to a shelter. It is so hard to see the happy dogs playing in the park and hear the agonizing barks of those in cages down the hill. In speaking with other pet parents, we have been appalled at the number of people at the dog park that have decided not to spay or neuter their pets because "I can get like $1,000 per puppy if I register it AKC," or "I love my dog! It's puppies would be so cute!" I'm grateful these people are dog owners, but so many animals are in cages, waiting for a home and a happy life, and yet one gets euthanized every 8 seconds in the US. Why add to the problem for money or "cuteness"?
I have had the same New Year's resolution each year since 2002 - be an even better person next year than I was this year. This year I decided to take measurable action. I want to make a difference in this life, and more than just connecting and positively influencing another person. I want to fight for those that can't speak for themselves. I can't give them all a home, but I can do something to reduce the number of homeless pets and those that could be fabulous pets but never have a chance because the shelter space is needed by the next intake. Our cat Snuggi had been in a 2 foot by 2 foot cage for over 90 days - and was scheduled to be put down 3 days after I decided to bring her home - she has been my constant love bug for over 4 years now. I put my nose into her fur and thank God I got there in time.
Please - I know times are hard, but the SNAP organization has this spay/neuter thing down to a science, so for them it costs on average $28 to fix an animal at a group event, where they will fix 50 animals, strays and low-income pets. I have decided to sponsor 10 events for them this year, which means I need to raise $14,000. My husband and I are committed to this - and will be holding several charity events throughout the year, and are blessed enough to have the support of our employers as well.
Please - anything you can give helps, and if you have nothing to give - share this blog with other friends and family. Together we can do this. Also - Paul says if you donate we will send you a picture of an animal that was not born thanks to your contributions! :)
Let's get started!!!
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