In the spirit of Christmas giving, keep in mind that everyone neither wants or needs a Christmas animal. Everyone loves puppies and kittens and the companionship that pets bring to our lives. But pets are not always suitable for some.
We are in the business of adoption, but not for the sake of adoption! While it looks great for the shelter numbers, remember we are looking for a forever home. Sadly, many will not find even a temporary home, and looking about the town, there are animals that are thin, lonely and chained to, if they are lucky, a doghouse (most are not). It is important to remember animals need love and attention, vet checks, and heartworm preventive. Owning an animal is expensive.
So before you make a decision to warm a loved one's life with a dog or cat, it is important to be aware that there are certain requirements such as a license (cost is more for unaltered animals). There is also a requirement for a collar, leash and an ID tag. Food should be of good quality that has less filler. Consideration of grooming supplies, toys and medical care that might include the sexual alteration. Rabies is required -- and distemper, bordetella and parvo, then booster shots.
As one can plainly see, there are a wide range of costs. At a minimum, the annual cost is around $360 for a healthy adult dog and about $290 for a healthy adult cat. So if you are considering giving a pet as a surprise, don't be surprised that this member of their household has requirements and other needs that are costly.
Sad to inform all that Brenda Hawkins had to say goodbye to "Yo-Yo." Losing the animal was sad enough, but it is one of the remaining memories linked to husband, James, who adored the animal. She was much-loved by him (a mutual feelin'). She guarded him as he slept. When he had periods of apnea, she was like an alarm. Perhaps James will be waiting at the Rainbow Bridge to greet her as she crosses it.
Did ya ever wonder if we are united with all the animals we so loved during our lives? If that should be true, I'm going to need a coliseum when I pass this life.
As Jazz would say: "God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God." (Mathew 5:9)
Shelter needs: The usual cleaning supplies, paper goods and many blessings to my good friend Jerry Sims for keeping his promise of $10,000 for me to match. Ya know, $10,000 looks good any way ya write it. God Bless all for giving checks when they couldn't come to our spaghetti dinner and auction. God Bless Blytheville! Merry Christmas!