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DECEMBER 2008
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THIS ISSUE:
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Economy Causes More Families to Give up Pets
Overwhelmed Shelters to Get Support from Angel Tree Collection
Family pets are the latest victim of the economic downturn. As the economy worsens and more families struggle to make ends meet, Connecticut animal shelters are seeing a huge inflow of pets being given up for adoption.
"Shelters and rescue groups are overwhelmed with the large number of dogs and cats released by people who just can’t afford to care for them," says Jen Tobias of Best Friends Pet Care. "The shelters simply don’t have enough food or supplies for all these newly homeless pets."
To help address the shortage, Best Friends will be collecting donation of food and supplies through an "Angel Tree" program at all four Connecticut locations throughout the holiday season. Beneficiaries include Connecticut Humane Society of Newington and Westport, Animal Haven of New Haven, Meriden Humane Society, Pet Protectors of Fairfield, Hotwater Rescue, Double Dog Rescue, Stamford Animal Shelter and PAWS of Norwalk.
Animal lovers can visit any Best Friends to select a card from the Angel Tree and donate the items listed for the homeless dog or cat. Since each shelter has specific needs, donors are asked to shop from the list on the pet’s card. Donations can also be made by phone with a credit card. Best Friends is located in Avon at 60 Harris Road, 860-673-0555; in Bethany at 227 Cheshire Road, 203-393-3126; in Norwalk at 528 Main Avenue (next to DMV), 203-849-1010; and in Rocky Hill at 1511 Silas Deane Highway, 860-721-8080.
"The holidays are always a difficult time for shelters," explains Jeremy Moran of Best Friends Bethany center. "Donations usual dip during this season, but this year, with all the newly homeless pets, the shortage of food and supplies is becoming a crisis. That why we are inviting anyone who loves animals to help out by donating to the program.
For more information, go to www.bestfriendspetcare.com
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