Dear Editor,
 
We hear so often about what is wrong in The Bahamas and about various people not doing their jobs; and very often I am more than willing to blow that whistle and complain about the shortcomings of our fellow Bahamians.  However, it is with enormous pride that I now blow a completely different type of whistle - that of praise and congratulations.
The Bahamas Humane Society shelter stayed open for the entirety of Hurricane Irene for emergency operations.  We cared for well over 150 animals during the storm.  They were fed, they received water, cages were kept clean and the animals were reassured.  This marvelous work was done by a group of very dedicated staff members who offered to stay over at the shelter to care for the animals.
After the storm many of the staff came forward and worked long hours on backbreaking projects to clean up the yard, and return it to its former condition.
It is with tremendous pride that I refer to these people as the backbone of the Bahamas Humane Society.  Yes, these people were doing their jobs, but they added that extra effort to do those jobs well and with dedication, determination and the joy of helping those unable to help themselves.
As president of the Bahamas Humane Society, I salute the dedicated staff at the shelter and publicly thank them for all they did under the very capable and watchful eye of our shelter manager, Percy Grant.
Unfortunately, just before the storm, many animals were surrendered.  At present we have 58 adult dogs.  Of that group, 12 are small Shih Tzu type breeds and crossbreeds.  The others are larger crossbreeds - all very beautiful animals with good natures.  We have 43 puppies, 39 adult cats and 36 kittens in our custody.  We need people to come in and adopt as quickly as possible.  It is no secret that the shelter moves mountains to not put any animals to sleep.  We believe every animal is entitled to a chance at love and compassion.
The shelter is very full now and, once again, we have to appeal to the general public to find the space in their hearts (and yards) to give a lonely animal a good home.  I am dedicated to finding happy solutions for these wonderful furry friends.  I simply could not imagine putting them to sleep because we cannot find homes for them.  Please help me to help them.
Those of you who brought in animals because your fences are down, you are very welcome to return and claim your pet if you are able to care for it adequately.
Please come down to the shelter and take a long look at the 101 canines and the 75 felines all vying for your attention and affection.  Nothing feels quite as good as helping those in need, and these animals really need homes.
 
Yours, etc.,
KIM ARANHA
President of the Bahamas Humane Society

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