Shedding Light

One of the things that truly makes my heart ache, and I am sure many others, is seeing pets around town lost or hurt. This is a problem, not just for Cibola County, but for many places. It is a problem that sometimes feels completely unfixable. It is the kind of problem we wish could simply be solved by snapping our fingers. However, despite the feeling of helplessness that arises when viewing the problem in full, it is a problem we can do something about one small step at a time. It is a problem we must care about.

The scope of this problem is a large one. Seeing lost dogs and cats around the community has become a usual and almost daily occurrence. The Cibola Community Awareness Group on Facebook is flooded with pictures of pets that have either been lost or seen wandering in the community. Worst of all, multiple stories and pictures also frequently arise of animals that have been abused, neglected, or hurt. “Grumpy,” the cat who was shot in the face with arrows and passed away about a week later back in August, was a prime example of the atrocity that can and does occur when these beloved furry companions are lost and roaming. Even worstcase scenarios aside though, roaming in the cold, lost, hungry, and afraid, is no way to live.

I have no intention of utilizing blame to accuse anyone here. Instead, my desire is to raise awareness. My desire is to inspire people to care and to convert that care into action and help in the ways that they can. I completely understand that we may not all have the means to help at times, but I urge those who do to help in the ways that they can. Not every act in this situation must be a grand rescue. It could be as simple as investing time into fixing a fence or gate, helping a neighbor with these tasks if they are unable, donating to the Animal Care Center if possible (money, food, blankets, and other donations), calling Animal Control, 505-285-4012, whenever you spot a lost pet, continuing to post pictures on social media, et cetera. Some more involved options could include microchipping your pets or stopping your car to see if you can apprehend and take care of a lost pet until the owner is found or the animal shelter can take them.

My point is that the ways of helping are endless and even the seemingly smallest courses of action can make a big difference. The problem is overwhelming to think about at times, but when I hear a story about puppies that were rescued from the Walmart parking lot by some caring individuals or see a social media post updated from “Lost” to “Found” as an owner and their furry family member are reunited, it makes it all worth it. I want to continue to see and hear about those positive stories, and I fully believe they can become more frequent as more and more individuals of the community acts to assist in the ways that they are able to make a big change. Our furry companions are well worth it – every single one.

Also, as a friendly reminder, bring your pets inside when it’s cold. Stay safe, stay warm, and have a happy holidays, everyone!