Week of 1/14/07 Humane Happenings

Desert Haven Animal Refuge is home to a number of adoptable dogs and cats. Although we do not list each and every one of them in this weekly column, we trust that folks, who are wondering whether or not they are ready to adopt a companion animal at this time in their life, will consider visiting the sanctuary regularly. While they spend quality time with the dog or cat that seems most suited to their lifestyle, they will also be able to decide if they are truly ready to include that animal in their daily life. Adopting a companion animal is not for everyone, but everyone can share quality time with a dog or a cat, and Desert Haven is a wonderful setting where that time can be shared.

One of the goals of The Sierra County Humane Society is to help educate school-age children on the importance of compassion for all the creatures - human and non-human - who share the Earth with us. Unfortunately, dog fighting and cockfights are still a way of life in some local households. Hopefully, what some folks call “their tradition” will finally be rightfully and overwhelmingly recognized as simple, old-fashion animal cruelty and dealt with accordingly by the local law enforcement authorities. Getting rid of this scourge will be a source of pride for all the decent folks who make Sierra County their home.

Thank-you, Barbara Korzen, Richard & Annie Millard, Lee Garner, Vicki and Fritz Sorg, Mary-Jane & Bill Clellan and everyone who contributes regularly, for helping us feed the feathered and furry creatures of Desert Haven. A special thank-you goes to Steve Hawkins for covering some of the veterinary costs generated by one of our kitties’ recent illness. George & DiAnna Schnetzer of Los Lunas are spending several days at Desert Haven while they oversee the cement work that they are funding for The Cool Cat Neighborhood and Dog Town. They never come empty-handed, and the car loads of pet food that they bring at every one of their trips to DH are always very appreciated.

Wish list: someone to donate or build a much needed 6 ft long clothes rack for Paws & Claws thrift shop - Sturdy wheelbarrow or garden cart - Household bleach – Brooms - Dog Walkers and Kitty Cuddlers - Someone to help our team deep-clean The Inn at Dog Town and our Cool Cat Neighborhood on Saturday and Tuesday mornings. For more information, contact us at 894-2778.