On behalf of the very many animals that have passed through our hands, and whom your fund-raising efforts have helped to re-home, thank you. Every life saved is one that would otherwise have been lost, and to quote Richard Johnson of The Phoenix Association

“Saving the life of one animal may not change the world, but the world will surely change for that animal”

The Hope Association was formed to raise funds to help animals in need, but we have also tried to raise people’s awareness of their own responsibilities to our four-footed friends.   It is far too easy to just pick up the telephone and dump your problems in someone else’s lap, but that problem does not go away and what happens when the Refuges or Associations just cannot cope any more, financially or physically!

YOUR RESPONSIBILITY

It is up to us all as individuals to stand up and take responsibility for helping animals.

Getting your own pet/s vaccinated, micro-chipped and sterilized are the first steps.

Not dumping problems on others who are already overwhelmed and struggling. It is all very well to rescue a stray animal but the responsibility does not stop there or with a phone call.  If you rescue an animal you must be prepared to go all the way, and some more.   Rescue Associations and volunteers are just so overwhelmed with animals, they cannot take on any more, and people must stop thinking of their own convenience and help, long term if need be.

Be realistic about the number of animals you can afford to own.

Stop the “Puppy Farms”, don’t encourage Breeders who are in it for the money.  Stop supporting pet shops that sell animals in glass cages.  Get out there and visit your local rescue centre and take their advice on a suitable pet to adopt, there are enough of them.

Don’t pass by on the other side of the road, be a Good Samaritan and your rewards will be many, and remember:

“Saving the life of one animal may not change the world, but the world will surely change for that animal”

A DOGS PLEA….

 Do not break my spirit with a stick, for although I should lick your hand between blows, your patience and understanding will quickly teach me the things you would have me learn.

Speak to me often, for your voice is the world’s sweetest music, as you must know by the fierce wagging of my tail when your footsteps falls upon my waiting ear.

Please take me inside when it is cold and wet, for I am a domesticated animal, no longer accustomed to bitter elements. I ask no greater glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth. Keep my pan filled with fresh water, for I cannot tell you when I suffer thirst.

Feed me clean food that I may stay well, to romp and play and do your bidding, to walk by your side and stand ready, willing and able to protect you with my life, should your life be in danger.

And, my friend, when I am very old, and I no longer enjoy good health, hearing and sight, do not make heroic efforts to keep me going. I am not having any fun. Please see that my trusting life is taken gently. I shall leave this earth knowing with the last breath I draw that my fate was always safest in your hands.

Author Unknown

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