Help spay or neuter county's stray cats

It is so heartwarming this time of year to see how many people open their hearts (and pursestrings) for those less fortunate. We have many poor and hungry families, some parentless, and homebound and homeless, too.

There is another segment of our population that desperately needs attention as well: The lost, abandonded and often abused cats left to fend for themselves by uncaring people.

My daughter, Olivia Rue and I, with a few like-minded supporters of the Lifetime Friends Animal Sancturary Thrift Shop, have attempted to help by feeding, sheltering (in outbuildings, woodsheds, etc.), and most importantly, providing friendship to these helpless creatures. When possible, we catch and neuter them, then return them to their outdoor surroundings where they will not add further to the population.

Over the past several months we have had a great number of stray cats spayed, neutered, tested and immunized, and even adopted out a few (through contacts at the thrift shop). This has cost many hundreds of dollars, which we truly cannot afford. We need help.

I have opened a stray cat account under my name at Animal Medical Care (Dr. Bob Stoll), 1120 Superior St., Sandpoint, ID 83864. Anyone who would like to help our efforts to comfort these innocent animals may donate tax deductible funds (ask for a receipt) which will be used only for our feral feline population. Anyone is welcome to call me between 7 a.m.-7 p.m. at 265-4688 regarding this fund.

Sadly, the main causes of this problem could be allayed: first, if all pet owners would neuter their animals and care for them as family friends, thus lengthening their lives and enhancing the qualities thereof; and second, if people who move away would arrange for new homes for their pets, rather then just driving away and leaving them in confusion and desperation.

VALLE NOVAK

Sandpoint