The snow and the cold weather has arrived. If we listen to everyone it is going to be a difficult winter.
With the cost of home heating oil, along with many other necessities, we are bracing ourselves for the worst. We are already full with animals but are anticipating that the numbers will rise. We are going into this with a positive attitude and our eyes wide open.
We have been straight out fundraising in order to pay our heat and utilities in advance. We also know that we need to have an emergency fund in place in case an animal is sick or injured.
Sylvester is one of several special needs cats available at the Ark Animal Sanctuary in Houlton. (Courtesy of Lorraine Monfils)
Over the summer, we tried to take all of our long term and special needs kitties to the vet for thorough exams and whatever else they needed. That came at a cost. We are well over $30,000 in vet bills for the year.
Yes that is a lot of money, but it was money well spent. All of our volunteers have worked so hard to ensure that every animal that passes through our doors gets whatever they need in order to live a long healthy life. We are very proud of the work we do.
This holiday season we could use your support and help. Those of you who are able , donations of purina cat chow, canned pate, clumping litter, bleach and paper towels are needed. Supplies can be dropped off at The Hollywood Pet Salon at 70 Main St. Houlton , Maine 04730 . Monetary donations can be mailed to the same address.
Other ways you can help are to support our fundraisers; volunteer your time to clean or if you see a volunteer give them a pat on the back and tell them you appreciate the work they do. Our work would not be possible without your support and generosity and we so appreciate that and you.
We hope you will consider making a donation and we hope you have a healthy and happy holiday season.
Thank you for your continued support and as always thank you for reading our column.
The Ark Animal Sanctuary is located on 101 Old Woodstock Road. To contact Lorraine Monfils call 207-532-7387 or check out their Facebook page.
