Dear Family and Friends,

It's that time of year again! The Suffolk Humane Society is raising money to help the homeless, lost and abandoned animals of Suffolk, VA with our second annual Mutt Strut Dog Walk and Festival.  The “gang” (Rocky, Jekyll, Flicker, Ember, Cyana, Harley) and I are once again participating and looking for sponsors to help support us in this great cause. 

Hard economic times are affecting our furry friends in ways that seem unimaginable. People are abandoning their pets as they abandon their homes, often leaving them behind in their houses without a second thought or dropping them off in random neighborhoods where these helpless dogs and cats are left to fend for themselves.  Every single day, millions of pets around the world wander the streets in desperate need of food, shelter, and love. The sad truth is that the majority of these abandoned animals will end up dying of exposure, trauma or starvation.  Others are slightly more fortunate being turned in at local shelters and rescue organizations that are now facing the burden of caring for this massive influx of abandoned pets, causing overcrowding, and other dangers for the animals.  It is an impossible task to help all of them but that doesn't mean we cannot try!

I know how hard it is for most people to donate any money to ANYTHING this year but I can tell you these poor helpless animals have never needed our help more. So I ask you to open your hearts and wallets, sacrifice a lunch or a dinner, or give whatever you can afford to this great cause.

In addition to helping the animals, your donation is tax deductible.  There are 2 ways in which you can donate.  The first is through this site, which is simple, fast and secure (http://www.firstgiving.com/darlacoon).  Or, should you feel uncomfortable donating on-line and would rather pay by check or cash, please drop me an email and I will send you the needed info and be sure you receive a tax receipt for your donation.  

With hugs, wags, and purrs, we thank you,

Darla, Rocky, Jekyll, Flicker, Ember, Cyana and Harley

P.S.      Please forward my page (this email) on to your friends, colleagues and family.  I'm sure each of you know several people who care about animals and would love to help me raise money for such a great cause.