Pet-Friendly Donations

It's the time of year when we give thanks for the blessings we've received. In my house, one of the biggest blessings comes with whisker-kisses and wagging affection. How about you? Many folks this year, though, are strapped for funds. We're rethinking our giving as the biggest shopping season approaches. One of the first places we cut back is donations. On the local level, donations run area nonprofit shelters. Without funding, shelters lay off staff, can't afford to take in needy animals or fund efforts to medicate, socialize, or rehome pets and educate owners. Regionally, veterinary colleges at universities often fund studies and welcome help. And even national level organizations run on donations. Morris Animal Foundation (www.morrisanimalfoundation.org) has launched several worthy campaigns dedicated to stamping out canine cancer, improving equine health, de-mystifying animal behavior, and expanding feline health care. They also provide funding for research into wild animal issues. The AKC Canine Health Foundation (www.akcchf.org) focuses on doggy initiatives. The Winn Feline Foundation (www.winnfelinehealth.org) takes the cats' side of care very seriously. Both these organizations go beyond purebred or pedigree animals, and have directly helped that purring kitty on your lap as well as the mutt on the sofa. It doesn't take much to help. We've seen how internet "viral marketing" can make a difference, when a million people each send in $1. And if you haven't the buck to spare, an hour's time spent socializing kittens and pups for their new home frees up paid staff to do other things. Think about it. That's one way to thank your fur-kids for all the whisker-kisses and wagging affection--and hey, your $1 or hour's time might make the difference in your own pet's health in the future.