#Middlebury
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: I get a decent end-of-year bonus around Christmas time, and I make it a point to donate a percentage of that bonus to a worthy charity. This year my wife recommended that I donate to the local pet shelter. However, there is plenty of need in other areas, especially those affected by disasters. Where would my donation be most needed? – Doug H., Dallas
DEAR DOUG: While the decision is entirely up to you, please consider donating to the local shelter as your wife suggested. Your donation will be used to directly support animal care at the shelter, from facilities maintenance and upgrades to providing food and medical care.
Providing local support helps to strengthen its ability to care for animals that need help. And, as shelters increasingly support each other, a well-funded local shelter means that it can support other shelters in the area when needed. This type of interdependence has proved its worth: After Hurricane Harvey, thousands of strays and lost pets were saved and kept in safe conditions throughout Texas and surrounding states, thanks to planning and coordination among animal welfare organizations.
Whether you decide to donate to a national organization or a specific shelter, try to find out as much as you can ahead of time about how your donation will be used – how much of the money goes directly to animal care, and how much to administration? Sites like Charity Navigator can provide information about larger organizations, and often you can find that information on a local shelter’s website, or by emailing or calling them.
Send your questions, comments or tips to ask@pawscorner.com.
© 2018 King Features Synd. Inc.
You must be logged in to post a comment.