Think about giving time, donations to Buddy
Christmas is actually pretty close at hand, even if big-box stores started in the fall or as early as August. The Buddy Foundation celebrates each season and holiday by the calendar because it seems that is what makes people happy, and, most importantly, what helps Buddy's animals the most.
We have begun to decorate the shelter to make it cozy for Mr. and Mrs. Claus - and for all of you - to visit. Santa and the Mrs. have already made a secret appearance to be advisers of how festive the shelter should be to greet our friends.
Those of you who were with us from the start, before the actual shelter was built, know this is a time for Buddy Trees to be scattered in the community to purchase ornaments. When an ornament is purchased, it is replaced with a star to honor a beloved person or animal. The trees can be found at the same locations as last year.
The Christmas newsletter should be finding its way to your mailbox soon with heartfelt stories of all the animals that only Buddy would help. I will soon also be mentioning a feline that traveled from Chicago to Barrington, only to be dumped in the backyard when the couple went their separate ways.
This feline has a long road to recover emotionally to be mentioned by name yet. He needs so much gentle care before we will say he is ready for adoption. We assure you we will be very picky about his new home!
Buddy's felines have their own wish list, independent of Buddy's wish list for them. Buddy's list is consistent with their supplies to care and clean for them, but the felines have other ideas!
Let us begin with the essentials of food, both dry and wet (can). We do our best to feed a dry, where the first ingredient is a real protein, not a meal or by-product. We are also grateful for any help you give us. Use your own ideas on what else we need to keep our felines happy, healthy and clean.
What our felines really want is volunteers. After all of their basic needs are met, they need loving attention. Only kindness can get them ready for their new homes. A gentle voice, a pet or a coax from under the couch. This is all they want for Christmas.
They want human contact that will not hurt them. Some animals take longer to trust again. Please volunteer this busy season. If you cannot adopt now, help us get our felines ready for the new year. A gently nudge or rub is your reward.
Upcoming
• Holiday photos with Mr. and Mrs. Claus will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8 and 15, at the shelter, 65 W. Seegers Road, in Arlington Heights. Bring your family and pets for a photo with Santa. There will also be a bake sale and treats for everyone, animals and humans alike.
• The Buddy Foundation, 65 W. Seegers Road, Arlington Heights, is a nonprofit 501(c) 3, shelter. Call (847) 290-5806 or visit www.thebuddyfoundation.org.