Thank you, Marilyn.   

Our dogs and cats have always had the very best we could give them.  Now, we have 13 more "children"!!!   It's been quite a learning experience that's for sure.

Amy, thank you so much!

Every day on social media is a horror show of overwhelming numbers of animals in need.  All the rescues I follow say they have never, ever seen it this bad.  I swear I come away with "face book PTSD" if there is such a thing.  When you connect with a pair of eyes, pleading for its life, it's hard to shake.  I cannot even imagine being on the actual front lines of rescue work, day in and day out, facing what these warriors encounter.  

why do you think it has gotten so bad?

I am thinking that during the pandemic people puchased pets and when they went back to work

they just decided to get rid of their pets---

That definitely accounts for some of the animals now being abandoned.  I kind of cringed when reading all the happy articles about the increase in adoptions during the lockdowns because I feared what might eventually happen when the novelty wore off.  The overall economy plays an even larger part. As people struggle with higher food, fuel, housing costs for themselves, they start jettisoning things that are not viewed as necessities.  For someone like us, those animals are necessities because they are living, breathing representatives of love that we have chosen to make a part of who we are.  Society as a whole has loosened its sense of moral responsibility.  It's a "perfect storm" for imperfect choices.

Well said----sadly

So well stated, Linda. I have that same Facebook PTSD. It's really hard to not feel despair. The attitude that animals are disposable infuriates me. I know that there are those who have no other choice than to give up their pet because of these terrible economic times, eviction, and on. But I read other stories over and over again about how the dog is old, too sick, they want a puppy, they want to travel, and so forth. Every excuse in the world from those who shirk their responsibilities.

But we are doing good here with our monthly club. Every single dollar helps. Being part of this club certainly makes me feel better and gives me hope.

Amy

All the excuses you list just infuriate me and to give up an old dog who has only ever known one family is completely inexcusable.  I still get choked up when thinking about olden Goldie who adopted us.  I always wondered what her life had been before she came in our driveway.  People who can abandon a soul that way - I simply cannot relate.  And, I'm glad I can't.  Caring so much is a double edged sword - we're the folks who "get it" as Dr. Richardson said - but I can't imagine not feeling this way toward animals.

I'm so glad we are able to help rescues each month and I'm very grateful for you and the others who are still a part of our efforts.  

I get choked up just thinking about your words. I'm so grateful that we're still able to help these suffering animals every month, especially in these horrible economic times, and very grateful for you continuing this group.  These critters are all in my prayers every day.  

So glad the chickens are doing well!

Tricia K.

Barbaro will lead the way...

Better late than never!  I just donated by PayPal to this month's rescue.

Thanks, Linda

Thank you, Patty!  Donations are welcome any time!!