It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

...everywhere I go! This is the time of year when calm gives way to frenzy, when normal gives way to crazed, and when we really should be thinking about others instead of all the things we are thinking about.

In this economy, there are many people with no jobs, no place to call home, and no relief in sight. Their pets have also suffered. Some have been let out to go potty and never let back in, others have been driven out to the country and dropped off, and others have been dropped off at shelters and pounds. I heard a story about a dog wandering in a city with Rosary Beads around his neck; someone loved that dog and prayed that it would be safe and find a new home.

I have a suggestion for you this especially trying holiday season -- instead of buying a bunch of new toys, treats, and a new dog bed for your own dog (when truth be told, they really prefer sticks to new toys, our lovingly made, more nutritious homemade treats, and our bed to any dog bed!), buy some things for a shelter or pound you hold near and dear. They can always use beds, food, treats, toys, and countless other items! Wouldn't it feel good to help out animals in need this year? Wouldn't it help to remind us all that it's not just about us? Wouldn't it feel good to know you helped an animal who is not curled up on a nice soft couch in a warm house this winter?

There are lots of great groups out there who need your help. Ask around, Google it, do whatever you need to do, but find a group and give them something -- nothing is too small or insignificant to help. The rewards will be boundless.

"For unto us a child is born."