The News Courier encourages letters to the editor. Submissions should be no more than 400 words and include name, address and telephone number for verification. Submissions that do not meet requirements are subject to editing. Writers are limited to one published letter every 30 days. Send letters to P.O. Box 670, Athens AL 35613 or email to adam@athensnews-courier.com.

Give to Athens animal shelter

Dear Editor:

I had the sad task of visiting our animal shelter to drop off a stray cat. It had been at my home for over a month. I fed it and it was friendly, but my own cat wanted nothing to do with him.

I was overwhelmed when I walked through the door of the shelter at how many volunteers were working and how overcrowded it was. I was ashamed to know I was contributing to the problem.

Almost 4,000 animals per year go through the shelter. I found out that this shelter is supported by a small amount from the city that probably doesn’t even pay their utility bill.

The shelter is funded by donations from the community alone. Its needs are listed on its Facebook page, but what they really need is funding, meaning dollars.

This is your shelter and your town. The people of Athens have a duty to help whenever they can. Please try to be compassionate towards these animals and give something. Every little bit helps.

The need would not be there if everyone would spay, neuter and keep their animals at home, inside or in a fenced yard. Go to the shelter and actually look at these poor animals. Each one has a personality, and at one time, probably a loving home or owner.

Step up and support your local shelter; look at those faces and say you can deny that little dog food or water. Then and only then say you don’t feel any responsibility to help.

Sincerely,

Deborah McCann

Athens