together we will make it through
Seemingly small occurrences can make such a huge difference in a life. One day I received this photo of boy and dog praying their little hearts out. Two days later, I received a newsletter full of answers for many who are in the throws of economic disaster.
Everything is abuzz with the trouble in our economy. The solutions often seem to range from the surreal to the nonexistent. The Humane Society of the United States tells us that pets by the thousands are ending up at local pounds and rescue shelters. We hear horror stories that some animals are left in vacant houses as the family drives away. Animal lovers everywhere are angry and heart-broken over the new homelessness of family pets, all the while hoping their situations do not take that horrible turn. Desperation leads to desperate actions.
But, when the chips are down the humans come together to help each other – and in doing so, help the pets. That is the silver lining. My heart seemed to swell up a hundred times over when I received my latest newsletter from Patricia Collier, editor of NewsPetter™ from
Florida Pets. Ms. Collier writes, “Thinking about this was making me crazy. So I decided to do something. I’ve compiled a list of resources for people who are struggling to keep their pets in spite of the nation’s economic turn down. From low-cost spaying and neutering services to free pet food, I’ve tried to find people and places that can help. And I hope to grow this list, by finding more resources myself and by readers like you letting me know about others. I believe it’s vital for people to be able to keep their pets, especially during times of stress and uncertainty. And it’s vital for pets to be able to keep their homes. I hope this information will help someone through a difficult time.”
With the help of other pet-lovers, Ms. Collier organized lists of help for people and their pets in hard times. She suggests you start with your local groups. Contact
Florida humane societies for help with pet food or medical care, or check with your local animal control. They may have plans for help. If you do not have a shelter in your area, contact The Humane Society of the United States for suggestions. Please note: You will need to qualify for the programs listed below, so please call for their qualifications before applying for assistance.
Florida Pets gives great information for those who need help and for those helping others:
Foreclosure problems?
No Paws Left Behind, Inc., a 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to bringing awareness to and finding solutions for the growing phenomena of “foreclosure pets“, today announced the launch of their organization and Web site, intended to help foreclosure victims find shelters for their pets. They direct visitors, based on their zip code, to local animal shelters and other alternative housing providers for pets in need.
Hungry?
We All Love Our Pets (WALOP), is a Meals on Wheels program to help seniors feed their pets as well as themselves. Contact your local Meals on Wheels or senior center for details.
On medication?
1. Publix offers a free prescription program for one of seven oral antibiotics for both people and pets. When veterinarians prescribe one of the drugs, consumers can take the prescription to Publix where they can get a 14-day free supply of one of seven medications, including Amoxicillin; Cephalexin, generic of Keslex; Penicillin VK; Ciprofloxacin (excluding Ciprofloxacin XR); Ampicillin; Erythromycin (excluding Ery-Tab), and Sulfamethoxazole/Trimethoprim (SMZ-TMP).
2. CVS. An official from CVS Pharmacy said they too have a program where they provide certain antibiotic drugs for people or pets at no charge.
The list goes on. Florida Pets has done an excellent job of finding help for those in need: low cost spaying and neutering , general veterinary care, help in an emergency, injuries and illnesses. I encourage you to visit Florida Pets and subscribe to NewsPetter™ for a wealth of information.
Please let us all know what is happening in your State and neighborhoods to help the helpless animals. Please write with any suggestions that will help those in troubled times.
