Editor, Times-Union: I would like to thank Jennifer Blair for her heartfelt, eloquent letter regarding the Animal Welfare League. Her words have prompted me to offer a few additional thoughts as well as relate my experience with this wonderful organization. About three years ago I decided to add to my four-legged family and adopt my last kitten. I had seen her picture in another area publication and decided she was coming home with me. On Nov. 17, 2011, I brought my little ball of fur home. She was 3 months old, weighed 3 pounds, 4 ounces and black as the night. I named her Lola. Today she weighs over 11 pounds, has a shiny coat of black silk, with little tufts of gray fur protruding from behind her ears. She is as sweet, playful, and affectionate as she is beautiful. I believe the wonderful volunteers at the Animal Welfare League had a lot to do with her disposition. The part of Ms. Blair's letter relating how the cats at the shelter are so cramped they must lay in their litter pans is heartbreaking. Come on, cat lovers reading this newspaper, surely we can do better than this. In addition to Ms. Blair's suggestions for donations, I would ask that if you have some room in your home and in your heart, and a few extra dollars for food, please consider adopting one of these beautiful animals. I guarantee you he or she will be the best friend you've ever had. I would caution to never, ever give a pet as a gift unless you are 100 percent certain it is wanted. This only leads to disaster for the recipient as well as the animal. If you have a pet that has not been spayed or neutered, please do so immediately. Many animals roam the streets and countryside hungry and without a home. Millions more are euthanized. The shelters are full. We don’t need anymore unwanted animals. Please be responsible. Along with Ms. Blair, I long for the day there will be no need for shelters and every animal will be wanted and loved. In closing, I will offer up one of my favorite quotes. “Saving one animal won't change the world, but it will change the world for that animal.” Janet Collins Etna Green, via email
