Don't forget those who help animals in this, the season of giving. While they may not be out ringing bells in front of stores this time of year, they need your help all the same.
It doesn't take much to help your local shelter, now or at any time of year. Gifts of time, services, or new or used goods are always welcome and can make a real difference in the lives of animals who aren't as lucky and loved as yours are. Here are a few suggestions:
-- Gifts of time. Not everyone is cut out to volunteer at the shelter -- some find it too depressing -- but fortunately that's not the only volunteer opportunity for an animal-lover with time to give. Fostering animals who need a little extra TLC is one way to help, but there are many more. If you're comfortable with public speaking, you could help with public-education programs, spreading the words of kindness and responsibility to schools or other groups. You could also work at fund-raisers, or work the phones to round up needed goods or services.
-- Gifts of services. If you have a business or a skill, chances are your shelter could use your help. Accountants, attorneys, writer/editors, graphic designers and contractors are among those who may find their expertise welcome at the shelter. Even if the shelter can't use your help directly, you could donate services to be raffled off to raise money. One of my friends is a photographer specializing in lovely hand-tinted portraits of pets, and she donates sittings and portraits to animal groups so they can raise money.
-- Gifts of goods. These don't need to be much, and all are appreciated. Old towels and newspapers are always in demand, as are items that can be used at thrift stores or used-book sales. Shelters also go through a lot of can openers, litter and animal food. Call and ask what is needed, or offer what you have. Your shelter will probably find a use for it.
As is always true when considering what to give, money is the welcome one-size-fits-all, no-need-to-return item on any list. Cash donations are always appreciated. If nothing else, consider the perfect gift for the animal-lover who has everything: a membership to your favorite shelter.
One of the best ways to help your shelter is to be sure you're not part of the problem of unwanted pets. Think, and think again, before introducing a pet into your family at this time of year, and don't give pets as gifts without being absolutely certain the recipient is as keen on the idea as you are. Above all, never buy a pet on impulse, no matter how cute, no matter how friendly, no matter that all you need do is pull out a credit card at the mall.
These caveats are especially true of puppies. Research carefully the breed or mix that will fit into your household, and take the time to find a reputable breeder, shelter or rescue group when it's time to pick your pup. Better still: Give a book now, along with the promise of a dog in the spring or summer. It's a lot easier to raise and train a puppy then, believe me. A great book for children who are dying for a puppy is the American Kennel Club's "Complete Dog Book for Kids" (Howell Book House; $22.95).
Pets on the Web: You just couldn't hope for anything better this holiday season than Elizabeth Cusulas' Dog Carols page (www.ddc.com/waggers/carols.html). The self-described "dogmama" to four cocker spaniels, Cusulas has rewritten holiday song lyrics to be more dog-focused. The results are very funny indeed, as evidenced in her version of "Shopping for the Doggies Once Again," sung to the tune of "Winter Wonderland": "Doggy toys, they're so nifty/You can never be thrifty/You spend all your cash/And then you must dash/Shopping for the doggies once again."
If you can't remember how the songs go, sound files are there to help you, or provide the instrumental background to your best singing effort. As Cusulas writes on the opening page: Point your muzzles to the sky and sing along!
Gina Spadafori is the award-winning author of "Dogs for Dummies" and "Cats for Dummies," and is the editorial director of the Veterinary Information Network Inc., an international online service for veterinary professionals. Write to her in care of this newspaper, or e-mail to Giori(at)aol.com.
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