People and pets in recession

I've been saddened to read many reports about families abandoning their pets because the breadwinner(s) has/have been laid off, they've lost their home, and they can't afford to keep the animal(s) with them and/or the temporary housing they're using doesn't allow them.

The latest report is that exotic birds such as cockatiels, macaws and others are now being found abandoned in foreclosed homes, because many animal shelters don't have facilities to take them.

Friends, here's a thought. This Christmas, if you have even a few dollars to spare, how about giving two extra gifts? The first would be to those organizations trying to help the suddenly homeless, like the Salvation Army, or a local food bank. The second would be to the local animal shelter of your choice? I suggest one that tries to be as helpful as possible, rather than one that simply euthanizes any strays or abandoned animals that come in: but that's your call. To locate those in your area, simply do an internet search on 'Animal Shelters' plus your zip code. That'll bring up a list of names.

Maybe, this Christmas, we can spare a thought for those families who can't celebrate, and for some of their animal friends who are suffering right now. The poor animals don't understand why the people they loved have abandoned them. Both need our help.

Peter