People that are familiar with me know that I am an animal lover who is involved in the shelter scene. Many people ask how they can help out. One of the best ways is to adopt one of the many animals that are available down at the shelter. Often this is met with resistance. It is like if a friend asks if you can loan them money or fix them up on a date with that cute co-worker of theirs. You'd like to help but you don't want to or often can't make that total commitment.
Fortunately the Meriden Humane Society has the perfect program for you, the K-9 Wings and Wishes Program. This is like the program for people who are that great aunt or uncle but when asked if they ever want kids of their own they reply with a resounding NO! A friend of mine told me that he "loves being an uncle but after the fun for the day is over, I can give the kid back to his parents to do all the rest of the stuff."
The K-9 Wings and Wishes Program allows people who do not have time to own a dog full time the opportunity to give their love and compassion to a dog on a part time basis. Its spring and I know a lot of us are now vowing to "get in shape" for summer since our New Year's resolutions to get in shape failed around Valentine's Day. You can try taking a canine companion on that walk with you. Do you want someone who will listen to you talk without judging you and relieving your stress while giving you kisses? We may just have the dog for you. Are you a single guy looking to find that special lady this spring? Many ladies can't resist a man with dog, especially if they see your how philanthropic you are by giving love to a shelter dog.
Being a K-9 "Angel" will be rewarding for you in so many ways. You don't have to be the annoying guy at the end of the bar trying to dump your problems on any willing soul. One of our dogs will listen without prejudice and it will be cheaper for you too. Are you thinking of calling one of your friends to complain about the guy you are dating for the 35th time this month while your friend is nodding and agreeing with you just so you'll stop? Being a K-9 "Angel" will not only help you make a new friend but will help you keep your old friends as well.
As dogs languish in a shelter they become less socialized and therefore less adoptable. with your help these dogs can re-socialize and therefore be more attractive to potential adopters and forever homes. You can even be the ambassador of your chosen dog since you will know him better than most. If you really bond you may find that doggy parenthood really suits you and you'll take your K-9 home yourself.
No matter what path you choose you will take great pride in knowing that you brought a ray of sunshine to a dog who is down on his luck. So if you are not sure about full time ownership or due to other circumstances you are not able to be a full time owner consider the K-9 Wings and help make a shelter dog a much happier dog.
The MHS K-9 Wings and Wishes program has day and evening hours available. Please email meridensociety@sbcglobal.net or stop down at the shelter at 311 Murdock Ave in Meriden during normal business hours.
