By Hannah W. Wever

Published: May 1, 2008

To the editor,
Most of you who filed a Federal Income Tax Return for 2007 have received, or soon will receive, a $600 or $1,200 bonanza from the federal government. The purpose of this windfall is to stimulate the economy and thus avoid or reduce the impact of a recession. This bonanza also offers each of us the opportunity to save the life of an unfortunate and deserving member of our community: an unfortunate dog or cat in need of urgent veterinary care.
Over the past two weeks, 12 dogs have tested “positive” for heartworm at the Orange County Shelter. It will cost about $3,000 to treat them and save their lives. This is not a one-time event. The need for urgent vet care is continual; however, the animal shelter budget contains no money for this kind of treatment. If veterinary care is not provided, the animals, through no fault of their own, will die. Those of us who care must provide the resources needed to eliminate that possibility.
Can you donate half of your stimulus bonanza to the Orange County Humane Society, P.O. Box 623, Orange, VA 22960? Your gift will be used exclusively to help the animals in need of emergency treatment.
The stimulus money you receive will not be taxed. If you itemize your deductions, gifts to the Humane Society are deductible as charitable contributions on your 2008 Federal Income Tax Return.
Some of us will need the stimulus check and cannot donate part of it to help the animals. If this is your situation, please don’t feel obligated or apologetic. On the other hand, some of us don’t need the extra money and donating it to save the lives of unfortunate dogs and cats in our community will not affect our lifestyle. If this describes your situation, please consider giving half to the Humane Society. You will feel great knowing that your generosity has saved the lives of dogs and cats who otherwise would die.
I will make my donation as soon as the stimulus check arrives. Please join me. Your gift will stimulate your heart as well as the economy.
Thanks to all of your for your continued support.
Bob Cooke
Locust Grove