I started volunteering at an animal shelter four years ago. A few women
with good intentions got in way over their heads with a no kill shelter.
Before they knew it they had forty five dogs and dozens of cats. I went
there looking for my friend's cat who had vanished.
They had no money except what they could personally contribute.
I felt the only thing I could do was plunge in and help. It cost us a
small fortune. I spent more on that volunteer work than any of us have
ever spent in the pursuit of entertainment.
Not only the money but the commitment of time. My son was with me but
for months on end I never had any time with my husband.
New cats were coming in all the time. People would say, if we didn't
take the cats they'd be killed. So naturally we'd try to make room.
They would have to be quarantined, vaccinated, spayed. Each new cat cost
the shelter (us) a minimum of $100. (that's if they weren't sick ) and
that didn't include food and litter pan, etc.
One of the very committed volunteers left when her husband threatened
divorce over the issue.
Things are better at the shelter after an organized fund raising drive,
sponsors and several grants, but the point is, doing something *real* can
cost plenty. It can tear you up emotionally, threaten a happy home life
and put you in debt. Yes, it can be worth it, but it's not always the
beautiful picture of fulfillment painted by the TV commercials. I have
found a replacement and am taking some time off. Maybe forever. Where's
that chess board...
Deb L, also vegan, HI Makana!!
