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Pets and the Holidays

With the coming of the holiday
season, we all get involved with preparations for our own
celebrations. There are many pleas for contributions to aid those less well off,
whether they be Toys for Tots, Food Banks or so many others. Less heard from are
the animal shelters and rescue groups who work all year long to find homes for
the homeless and forgotten animals. In the spirit of giving, consider animal
organizations in your plans.

When making a donation to a food bank, I usually try to add a can
or bag of pet food along with the human food donation as many of the food banks
have clients with pets. If a few food items can help, so can a bag
of cat food. Check with your local food bank to see if they will accept such
contributions.

Many shelters have wish lists on their websites requesting things such as pet
toys, food donations, blankets, towels and more elaborate items. My local
shelter has an air-conditioned cargo van on their wish list! Of course, many
groups would love to have money or volunteers to contribute time, too. The small
rescue groups can always use assistance, especially at the holidays. They often
don’t receive the public attention of the larger organizations.

Other areas also receiving less attention are the research foundations and
veterinary schools that accept donations for general research, some even offer
programs for specific breeds, conditions or illnesses. A friend has a cat with a
heart condition. She often suggests that in lieu of a gift, she would prefer a
contribution to the fund that provides research grants for her cat’s condition.

Most of these organizations qualify as charitable, thus contributions of
money or goods can be tax deductible. Verify the status before you give and ask
for a receipt.

Thinking of the animals in need, as well as the humans, during the holiday
season can provide the peaceful and warm feeling that is gratifying.

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