HRDC helps local shelters with pet angel tree

  • Published
  • By Lt. Col. Christina Marks
  • 442nd Human Resources Development Council
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  In December there will be a Pet Angel holiday tree located in the wing education and training office in building 48.

Items collected will benefit the Warrensburg Animal Shelter, Warrensburg, Mo., and the Homeward Bound Pug Rescue.

"It's important to help the Pet Angel tree because there are so many homeless pets," said Anita Brenberger, chief of the 442nd Education and Training Flight.
Brenberger has been a Homeward Bound Pug Rescue volunteer since 2005, and done pug rescue herself since 2003.

"This has always been a problem, but with the current economy it's only gotten increasingly worse.

"People are getting rid of their pets because they have to choose between food for the pet and food for the family," she said. "People are losing their homes and have to move either into apartments that don't allow pets or with friends or family and can't take their pets."

According to the Humane Society of the United States, "Over four million cats and dogs -- about one every eight seconds -- are put down in U.S. shelters each year. Often these animals are the offspring of cherished family pets."

The Warrensburg Animal Shelter can house anywhere from 75 to 100 animals a day to include guinea pigs, rabbits and other animals as long as there is space. How long an animal stays there, varies from one animal to the next.

Puppies and kittens are typically adopted faster than mature animals. On average it could be about six to eight months for a dog to be adopted.

"We provide a community-type service taking in animals that would otherwise be on the street or a safety risk," said Sarah Jacob, Warrensburg Animal Shelter manager.

In addition to adopting animals, the shelter also educates the public on pet overpopulation, neutering and pet care.

The Angel tree is looking for anything from dog and cat treats and food, any type of cleaning supplies (paper towels, bleach, dish soap, sponges, wipes), cat litter, dog and cat toys, to something as simple as newspapers to gently used or new blankets and towels. Monetary donations are also accepted and will help pay for veterinarian bills, medicine, and other needed items.

"The cost per pug to get them ready for their forever home is anywhere from $80 up to $3,000, depending on what their health issues may be," Brenberger said.

She currently has eight pugs at her house. Five are hers, and three are her mother-in-law's, who lives with her and her husband. Of the eight, five are rescues.

"The holidays are usually an important time for families," Brenberger said, "and these pets used to be part of a family. It's just our little way of making them a little more comfortable during the holidays even though they no longer have that family."

For more information on the pet Angel tree, you may contact Brenberger at (660) 687-3527 or Lt. Col. Christina M. Marks at (660) 687-4615.