DEAR ABBY: I do volunteer work at the Humane Society to help out with the animals that people have "thrown away." It breaks my heart to see the stream of wonderful, gentle, well-mannered, loving animals that are dropped here because maybe they're not convenient anymore to their owners -- or for whatever reason a person could abandon one who loves them so much.
You frequently remind people to give stuffed animals as gifts rather than living animals, unless they are absolutely certain that the owners will properly care for them. And you also say that "Living creatures are not 'toys' to be mauled, abused or neglected." Hurray for you! People need to be reminded that pets of any sort are feeling creatures and very dependent. They require planning and a long-term commitment even before one decides to bring them home.
Abby, a million thanks for speaking out for those who cannot speak. -- JULIE SENDROWSKI, AVON, COLO.
DEAR JULIE: And a million thanks to you for your heartfelt reminder to any well-meaning reader who may be considering a living creature as a gift.