Thank you to every volunteer

This week's column is dedicated to the staff and volunteers of animal shelters throughout our country. So often you hear people say, "I would love to come and help, but it is too sad to see all of those animals there and without homes." I felt that way long, long ago.

There are several reasons that this is not the case and hinders animal welfare. First off you helping at a shelter, petting, grooming and walking these homeless pets is why it won't be sad. You will be the one to love them until there forever family comes to adopt them. Your absence from the shelter is what is sad for them.

Secondly, the fact that people do not want to come to the shelters does not make the reality of homeless pets go away. It just allows the public to turn a blind eye to their needs. Each one of you can make a major difference with just a few hours of your time. A dog that can sit and walk properly on a leash is more adoptable. A cat that has constant human contact will be less frightened of the family looking for a cuddly pet.

The staff and volunteers at the animal shelters are temporary foster parents who give all of the care, love and attention these homeless pets need and make their stay a pleasant one. It is an honorable and joyous thing they do.

Often I am complimented or recognized for my dedication to the animals. It is not me. It is every person that gives their love and their time for our homeless friends. I only speak on their behalf. They are all truly angels on earth.

My personal and professional dedication to the Humane Society of the Nature Coast and the pets who are temporary guests there is a debt I continually try to repay. The debt is owed to Lady.

Lady was part of a litter of puppies that someone was giving away at the factory where my mother worked. My very first childhood memory is of waking up to wet. It scared me at first. I finally opened my weary eyes to see this little bundle of fur licking my face as fast as her little tongue could move.

Like many children with pets, I found Lady to be my very best friend. She followed me everywhere. She let me dress her up in silly outfits; she played ball with me, and loved everyone she met. I shared all of my childhood secrets and fears with her. When I was sad my tears were buried in her fur. She always seemed to understand how I felt and no matter what happened on a day to day basis as I grew and matured, her love was unfailing. Her portrait hangs on my wall to this day.

For anyone with a child who is begging for a pet, give it serious consideration. Pets can be the greatest teachers of all to our children. Lady taught me the gifts of kindness, compassion, joy, forgiveness and responsibility to others. All wrapped up in a ball of fur.

Do your homework and have your children do their homework before adopting a pet. Yes, it is a bit more work for everyone in the house - usually mom and dad - but the rewards are far beyond measure.