During this time of year most of us are in a scurry to get ready for the holidays. We are busy identifying gifts for those we love and making lists of different foods that we want to prepare and share.

 

Let me call to your attention our furry friends who most of us shop for as though they are members of our families. We hang a stocking and fill it with snacks and toys. We will buy them a new sweater for the winter. We might even get them a new blanket for their bed. Of course, if they are like my Max their bed is cuddled up close to an electric blanket with me.

 

How many senior citizens do you know who live alone with a pet? A pet supplies them with much love and companionship. Sometimes they are the only contact the senior will have with a living being for many days. Many seniors live on fixed incomes and during the winter when utility bills are high they have a challenging time making ends meet. They might go without food themselves to purchase food for their pet.

 

Several years ago, the Progressive Women’s Association became aware of this problem and decided they would do something about this. They operate a food pantry and the group decided they could incorporate pet supplies to meet the needs of our citizens. After board action the group opened a pet pantry. They named it Peppys Pet Pantry after Director Elinda Carson’s pet. Members started collecting cat and dog food, pet litter and anything pet related. An appeal was made to the community to support this new project.

 

Pet Supplies Plus, a local pet store, came forward and became an important part of this project. They have consistently provided the pet pantry with supplies and have headed up projects for individuals to furnish items for the pantry. Other individuals have headed up drives to keep the pantry shelves stocked. Pet Supplies Plus has certainly been a leader in feeding our furry friends and deserves a big thank you.

 

Remember that when donating to the pet pantry, you are not only making a pet happy, but you are helping an individual provide for their pet while keeping funds for their own needs. You know there are those who will do without to supply for their animal.

 

Please contact the PWA at 304-624-6881 to donate. Money or supplies will be accepted.

 

Also, please plan to attend holiday parties. It will give you the opportunity to socialize with friends and associates that you work with all year. Don’t forget to attend Christmas activities at your church. You know the reason for the season.

 

Cuddle up to that little pet and until next week, “Now You Have Heard It Through The Grapevine.”

 

Editor's Note: Photo shows the blogger, Rosalyn Queen, with 5-year-old Max, a Yorkie who was her late son Marty's dog.