Pet Talk

by Cathy Davis
www.houltonanimalshelter.com
    First of all, I would like to take a minute to thank Jennifer Hughes for her efforts hosting several recent fund-raisers to benefit the animal shelter. Many people ordered beautiful Yankee Candle gift items in preparation for the coming holidays, with a portion of the proceeds to benefit the Shelter. Jen was also involved in a very successful raffle, with the winners receiving gift certificates for Horn of Plenty meals. Our deepest appreciation to the Horn of Plenty for their generous donation!
    These fund-raisers are vital to the ongoing survival of the animal shelter. No exaggeration there, without so many wonderful supporters there would be no Houlton Humane Society. Even now, we are in danger of running out of money by the end of the month. Many thanks to all those who save bottles, pennies, have tag sales or sell candles to help the animals!
    The Houlton Humane Society was very excited and honored when we were recently notified that we had been nominated for, and chosen, as “Hometown Hero” by the local Unicel Office! There will be a reception on Friday, Sept. 12 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and we would love to have you stop by and just visit with the Shelter board members and staff, meet a few of our animals, maybe even adopt one! Many thanks to Unicel for this extraordinary recognition.
    None of us are heroes in the real sense, we didn’t dive in and pull someone from a raging river, we didn’t run into a burning house to save a family, we don’t put our lives on the line every day, but I have to tell you, there are people who are involved with the animal shelter and with animal welfare who go without sleep, go without food, who put the welfare of the animals before their own just to protect those who can’t speak for or protect themselves.
    I do happen to know of two women who literally did put themselves at risk recently to rescue a severely neglected dog, I know of another board member who risked life, limb, frostbite, and dog bite to save a starving and lost dog, I know of a board member who risked more than you can imagine to rescue an abused and neglected rabbit. Come to think of it, these women are my heroes, and they certainly do deserve this recognition. The problem is, not one of them will step forward and receive any praise for what they do. I know two ladies who go out every single day, regardless of the conditions, regardless of their own safety, to care for several colonies of feral cats. I know of a local business owner who has rescued and re-homed over 100 animals and just keeps going like the energizer bunny. I am amazed and humbled by the dedication of these kind souls.
    We look forward to seeing you on the 12th; the reception is right at the Unicel office on North Street.
    Also keep Saturday, Sept. 13th available for a giant tag sale at York’s of Houlton with the proceeds benefiting the shelter. Everybody loves a yard sale and what better way to end up a beautiful summer than with an exciting and fun event! Many thanks to York’s for their support!
    The coming weeks and months will be extremely difficult for the Shelter – pretty soon the oil truck is going to show up and I don’t know where the money will come from to pay the oil bill. We are in need of your financial support more than ever. Our staff has worked diligently to reduce costs wherever possible, without sacrificing quality care for the animals. There is no “fat” in our budget, there are no frills.
    If you can help in any way, please either call the Shelter at 532-2862 or drop us a line, or a donation, to P.O. Box 548, Houlton, Me 04730. We really appreciate your support.