ANIMAL FRIENDS RESCUE PROJECT

The Big Idea: It’s a safety net for our furry friends. Animal Friends Rescue Project needs funding for its Wounded Paw Medical Fund, which covers veterinary care for sick and injured cats and dogs. Local shelters call AFRP to take in their least adoptable animals, including those with health problems, from kitties with the sniffles to pups that have been hit by cars and require surgery. AFRP provides medical attention and finds them good homes. The shelters don’t have the space or resources to care for these critters; if it weren’t for AFRP, they’d likely be put down.

Pup Pup Give: “AFRP rescues animals that do not stand a chance of survival in the shelter: typically senior animals, underage or unweaned animals, animals in need of minor and major medical attention, and pregnant or nursing animals.”

PEACE OF MIND DOG RESCUE

The Big Idea: Peace of Mind Dog Rescue rescues about 100 dogs each year, mostly senior animals that would otherwise likely be put to sleep. The nonprofit spends an average $500 in medical expenses for every rescued dog – which receives an exam, senior blood panel, dental evaluation and cleaning, spay/neuter as needed, deworm, deflea, vaccinations and microchip. It also provides any additional medical care the animal needs. The group wants help funding its doggy medical bills.

The Rescuers: “We have heard from social workers, hospice nurses and family members that POMDR has made a difference in the lives of people who are ill and dying in knowing that their dog will be taken care of. Many family members are unable to cope with a dog that has been left behind. POMDR is able to take that burden off the family and provide the dog(s) with a loving foster home until adoption.”

SAVE THE WHALES

The Big Idea: Whales are big. Save the Whales’ plans for the future are even bigger. The group currently offers classroom instruction about marine mammals, their environment and their preservation. It would like to develop a sea turtle outreach program to add to the menu of classes offered to kids. This means they need money to develop the program, purchase model sea turtles and sea turtle skulls, carrying cases for artifacts and a sea turtle costume for the youngsters.

Coming Out Of Their Shells: “Our instructors inspire students to care about the oceans and protect marine mammals. Teachers remark that the learning experience continues after instructors leave the classroom. Students often seek more information on whales and marine mammals after a program, and several have started a Save The Whales club to continue actions o help the oceans.”

THE SPCA FOR MONTEREY COUNTY

The Big Idea: When families can’t afford to put food on the table, the humans aren’t the only ones who go to bed hungry. The SPCA needs funding for its Pet Meals program, offered in collaboration with Meals on Wheels. The SPCA launched the program in 2002 after learning that Meals on Wheels clients were feeding their own delivered meals to their pets. Faithful Fido and Cuddly Kitty give comfort and companionship – and sometimes the primary source of love and affection – to people with medical and age-related challenges. For those who are physically impaired or on fixed incomes, it can be a constant struggle to feed themselves and their pets.

Fancy Feast: “I have a happy cat because of you! Leo is my best friend.”

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