Week of 10/13/12 Humane Happenings

by Eliana Aubin 

Doggy breakfast is almost ready at Desert Haven Animal Refuge

At this time of the year, with the holiday season soon to be upon us, national and international animal welfare organizations like the Humane Society of the US, ASPCA for example, have the financial capabilities to raise funds professionally and indeed are very successful in attracting much good-will from many of us who love animals. Let’s not forget worthy local organizations in need of the same good-will. When we donate to this or that organization, some of us prefer to see first-hand where our hard earned dollars go. This way, we can ensure that our contribution is being used directly for the benefit of animals.

 Desert Haven Animal Refuge is a no-kill sanctuary for domestic animals down-on-their luck. During these hard times, the resources of DHAR have to be stretched even further to make ends meet and fill the needs of the little ones under our care. Sadly, we are unable to take in all the unwanted and discarded dogs and cats in need. We make a difference in the lives of those that we can save, and that is priceless to them.

Folks have contacted us recently regarding Sierra Animal Shelter in TorC. Some residents fear that it may be closed because they say the sign is no longer there. Sierra Animal Shelter is still in operation and still located next door to Sierra Veterinary Services. TorC, Williamsburg and Elephant Butte residents and anyone in Sierra County wishing to give-up an unwanted dog or cat can drop-off the animal at Sierra Animal Shelter, totally free of charge to that individual and no questions asked.

Abandoning a companion animal is now a fourth degree felony and anyone caught doing so can be prosecuted. It takes a witness willing to step-up for the animal; it takes a local animal control officer committed to doing the right thing. Then the person who has abandoned the defenseless animal can be prosecuted. Call TorC Dispatch at 575-894-7111 and request to speak with the ACO on duty at the time. Requesting a follow-up is a good idea.

Our major fund raising activity is Paws & Claws Thrift Shoppe in T or C. We continue to need volunteer help at the shop during business hours - Wednesday through Saturday, 11 AM to 4 PM. Visit Desert Haven on a Tuesday and get involved! Check us out at http://www.DesertHavenAnimalRefuge and www.Facebook.com/deserthaven.