The month of February sees so many pets abandoned by their new owners who received these fur babies as Christmas presents. Whether it’s a lack of space or puppy/dog behavior issues, many fur babies find themselves at a high-kill shelter. Perhaps it’s a matter of the animal maturing into a young adult, and they aren’t as ‘cute’ as they were under the Christmas tree.
Whatever the reason, the season changes and the situation persists. Please take time to consider the lives that are lost due to neglect and abandonment. If you can contribute to your local shelter, please do so. So many lives come in the front door and leave by the back door of a high-kill shelter. This is the hard truth.
Did you know, anyone can volunteer. There are few requirements to become a volunteer. A love for animals and a desire to help make a difference are all the qualifications necessary. Something as simple as walking a dog at the local pound helps so much. Imagine if you lost your dignity through no fault of your own. The small things matter too.
If you can’t adopt, foster. If you can’t foster, contribute with your money and/or your time. Donations are always welcome and the small time you spend at a shelter provides so much to the animals as well as your own sense of worth.
You don’t have to run a 501c rescue or be a part of an association to make a difference. Something like sharing on social media can save the life of a pup or kitten before disease and death visit.
Finally, please remember to adopt, don’t shop. Thank you for helping these creatures who depend on us for their survival.
Catherine Wolffe 
This is a heartfelt post, Jacquie. Thanks for sharing. I had my shelter dog for fourteen years, and I lost her almost seven months ago. I miss her every day.
After the passing of my Rocky, my vet did his best to comfort me with this reality, “Our pets can’t outlive us.” Didn’t do much for me at the time, but as time has passed, I began to understand. Many pets do find themselves orphaned and in shelters after a family member’s death. It’s heart- wrenching to see their lose too. Hugs to you, Mary. Your baby knew your love until she was ready to cross the rainbow bridge.
I couldn’t stand to have a loving animal lose me and have to suffer alone. We’re human and can understand the meaning of loss, but they just feel abandoned. 😦
Oops, I mean Catherine. I looked at two blogs in a row. Sorry. 😦
No worries. You are always welcome!
Reblogged this on Author Mary J. McCoy-Dressel and commented:
This makes so much sense. Catherine makes a good point here when she says: “…remember to adopt, don’t shop.”
Your support is greatly appreciated, Mary. Thanks for sharing this reminder that animals do matter. The need is real and the time is now for each of us to do our part whatever that may be. Paw prints are the way those with out thumbs let us know they care. ❤