The following bi-weekly column is written and sponsored by Dog Paws n Cat Claws, which provides a heart-centered and safe environment for your pets. Conveniently located at 5818-C Seminary Road in Bailey’s Crossroads, DPnCC offers doggy daycare, boarding, grooming, walking and training services, plus in-home pet care.
At the tender age of 5, I came home with a caterpillar and announced to my parents, “I’m her new Mommy.”
Obviously, that didn’t work out, but it was clear that I would be a die-hard rescuer. Right after I moved to a place of my own, I rescued a kitten on the highway that lived as my loyal best friend for 17 years! I’ve rescued one from an abandoned house, and another under a car. My current 3 cats were rescued off the streets of New York. I “foster failed” with my 90-pound deaf boxer after 2 days and I signed the adoption papers with tears of joy.
I’m lucky enough today to be surrounded by people who have the same mind set as I do. At Thanksgiving, I make a list of what I have to be thankful for and my pets are always at the top. In turn, I look for ways to show my gratitude to the organizations that rescue pets in need of care, love and a family. It’s time to remember those in need.
It’s estimated that approximately 7.6 million animals enter shelters each year in the US, including 3.9 million dogs and 3.4 million cats. Only 10% of them are spayed or neutered. 1.2 million dogs and 1.4 million cats are euthanized every year, even with the 13,600 rescue organizations across the US doing their best to save them. Dog Lover’s Digest lists 7 rescue groups in Arlington alone, with even more in the surrounding areas. We have worked with Homeward Trails for over 11 years and know just how desperate the need is to care for all of these rescued pets.
Homeward Trails, who is responsible for finding my own dog, currently has 55 dogs at its rescue shelter, with 125 dogs and 150 cats in foster care. They need your help! Homeward Trails Adoption Coordinator and Dog Paws employee Miranda Trohon says, “With the increasing number of animals we take in during the colder months, we have an ever-increasing amount of animals to feed. We can go through upwards of 30 bags of food a month at our Adoption Center alone!” This is only one rescue group in our area. Each and every one of them would benefit from donations. I am asking you to pick your favorite and give what you can.
Most of the dogs and cats that enter rescue shelters are from a rough background. Nothing helps a puppy or kitten grow like excellent nutrition and a sick animal is more likely to bounce back into a full recovery if they are eating healthy food. Look for grain free food and make sure the top listed ingredient is a protein. All of the dog and cat food we sell in our store is of the highest nutritional quality.
During this time of gratitude, we can all be thankful for what we have. What we can give to help those less fortunate is a wonderful way to say “thank you.” There are so many rescue organizations in our area that are in need and each November, Dog Paws n Cat Claws offers 10% off of any products bought in our store that will be donated to Homeward Trails, making it easier and more affordable to provide high quality products.
My pets have added so much joy to my life and I’m sure I’m not the only one who feels that way. I personally want to thank them by donating to Homeward Trails in their name. They brought me my best friend. Join me! Where did your best friend come from? Thank the rescue organization that brought you together by giving back. Better yet, adopt a NEW pet!
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Sara Schabach
Dog Paws n Cat Claws
In-home Pet Care Manager