We all agree that pet overpopulation has grown to epidemic proportions. One woman and her son are doing their part to “fix” the problem by taking it to the streets.
Wendy McGuire has always been inspired by the contributions of Georgia Heartland Humane Society’s H.E.L.P. (Help End Local Pet-Overpopulation) Clinic in her south Georgia community. They offer low cost and sometimes even free services (to those who financially qualify). She also knows programs like that — however crucial to the community — cost money to operate and depend heavily on donations.
Wendy and her son Robbie decided they could help the cause and combined their love of biking with an opportunity to raise $10,000 for the clinic. On August 10, they embark on a 4-day, 3-night, 250-mile bike ride from their family restaurant in Senoia to Savannah. One-hundred percent of the funds raised by Pedals for Pets will benefit the H.E.L.P. Spay/Neuter Clinic. Wendy said the bike ride is not just a way for her to exercise and stay fit — she is driven and inspired by a real purpose for which she feels passionate: to make a difference in the lives of unwanted, neglected, abused, and homeless “pets.” She and Robbie hope this bike ride will become an annual event and that others will join them in their cause.
According to the H.E.L.P. site:
- Approximately 8-12 million companion animals enter animal shelters nationwide every year and approximately 5-9 million are euthanized (60% of dogs and 70% of cats). Shelter intakes are about evenly divided between those relinquished by owners and those picked up by animal control. These are national estimates; the percentage of euthanasia may vary from state to state.
- Less than 2 percent of cats and only 15-20% of dogs are returned to their owners.* Most of these were identified with tags, tattoos or microchips.
- Only 10% of the animals received by shelters have been spayed or neutered. 75% of owned pets are neutered.
Wendy and Robbie’s passion-turned-to-action is certainly inspirational, but not unique to them. We each have an opportunity every day to make a difference in the lives of animals and be creative in our contributions. How will you contribute?
Tax deductible donations to Pedals for Pets can be made at at their site.
pedal for pets, cute~! And great idea, even better cause~!……
that is awesome..God Bless you!!
Awesome I will pray for you both to have safe
traveling, good luck!!