To the editor:
Nationally, over seven million dogs and cats are euthanized every year. The vast majority of these are happy, healthy animals whose only “crime” is to be born unwanted. There simply are more of them than there are adopters.
Because of this sad fact, February is National Prevent a Litter Month. The Central Aroostook Humane Society is attempting to raise $5,000 during this month for their spay/neuter program to ascertain that no animal leaves the Presque Isle Animal Shelter system without being spayed or neutered this year. As of Feb. 16, just over $1,500 has been raised. Needless to say, this is far short of the need.
I believe strongly that spay/neuter is the only sure way to prevent this yearly animal holocaust. My feelings in support for this CAHS $5,000 drive are so deep that I am issuing a challenge to all community businesses and individuals who are concerned for the welfare of animals. I will put up $500 if there are at least six other businesses or individuals who will donate the same or more.
I know that there are several businesses in the area that are very community-oriented and are always looking for worthy endeavors. I’ve seen the dedicated, hard-working staff at the CAHS, whose main drive is their love for the animals. I’ve seen them battle the almost overwhelming numbers, of cats especially, that are the direct results of irresponsible owners not spaying/neutering their own pets. The staff realizes spay/neuter is the only sure way to turn the tide on pet overpopulation.
I also realize there are individuals out there like myself, who love animals and are able to meet this challenge. All that is necessary is for you to act. I also realize there are many other individuals out there who love animals, love their community, but don’t have $500 to spare. To those I say, every dollar you can spare will help prevent an unwanted litter and will bring happiness and contentment into a dog or cat’s life.
To donate, simply go to centralaroostookhumanesociety.org and pay through Pay Pal, or call the CAHS at 764-3441 or visit the CAHS in person. Take a tour while you’re there and see the need for spay/neuter with your own eyes.
So what do you say? Is my $500 in danger? I dearly hope so.
Clare Kierstead
Presque Isle
