Community News for Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Northeast Phoenix, Carefree, Cave Creek and surrounding areas.
CITYSunTimes Web Exclusives May 2011 | Read the full SECTION
CITY PETS
They’re Not Just Pets…They’re Family
Giving Back
By Susan Luffey
Despite awareness that Mother’s Day is on its way, somehow each year a majority of us find ourselves not really knowing what to buy our beloved mother. We stand in line at the mall, grabbing the first thing we see, which coincidentally was the last thing on the shelf. Don’t worry! You still have plenty of time to hint gift ideas at the dinner table, or glean answers from hypothetical situations posited to your mom. But maybe this is the year to try a different approach! With some preparation, you could also give the gift of life in a different way: consider adopting a pet for mom on Mother’s Day.
Adoption not only saves lives; it is a belief in the recipient’s ability to care. An appalling number of animals go to bed each night homeless, hungry and alone, and adoption is an effective and humane solution. Taking on a pet is not limited to dogs and cats. There are many birds, reptiles and guinea pigs, for example, who would appreciate the care and attention a mother can provide.
Consider adopting from rescue organizations, so that they may continue saving animals, or visit the Humane Society or Maricopa County for adoption information. This year, put a little something back in the nest that will love Mom unconditionally, accompany and protect her for years and years to come.
Check out www.pacc911.org and view their “adoption partners” for local pet rescues. Other local shelters: www.azhumane.org, www.maricopa.gov/pets.
Susan Luffey is the owner of Pampered Pets & Plants, Inc. For more information, call 602.547.1121 in the Greater Phoenix area, or 888.547.1121 in Maricopa and Prescott or visit www.pamperedpetsandplants.com.