Dear Friends and Family,

As you all know, Nanak came from a shelter in Steamboat Springs, Co when she was just about 3 years old.....Her presence in my life was the greatest gift I ever could have received.  I can hardly imagine what that 14 year window would have looked like without her constantly at my side...She saw me through so many transitions, through college and graduate school, through love and heart break a few times, through relocations and re-inventions....she showed me what unconditional love looked like UP CLOSE.  Her spirit will always live in my heart.

There is a dogwood tree in my new backyard, planted in her honor, that has begun to bloom and grow....As I close in on my first full year without her in my life, I am reminded that life and love carry on.  I miss her tremendously and know a new ache inside my chest that is my Longing for her.....her smiling eyes, her unique and special way in the world......I loved her more than words can say.

It is in honor of the special relationship that she and I shared that I appeal to you today.  Each week, I watch more and more loving furry creatures go home to new families after they have been abandoned or abused (oftentimes both), and there is a new and wonderful sense of hope for the animals I see leaving, but almost more remarkably, for the people who are taking them away.  Many of them have no idea just how deeply an animal can touch their heart....but they will one day. That is for certain.

Please join me in celebrating the work of the Humane Society of Chittenden County (or make a donation to your local shelter instead).  

Nanak holds the most special place in my heart, now and always.....please consider making a donation today in honor of her fantastic and long life of 17 years.  If you are unable to make a donation at this time, please send her a little shout out from the heart....I believe she'll hear it!

With so much gratitude and a tender heart,

Katey