Shelter Birthday Parties

Forget about MacDonald's and Chuck E. Cheese!

One of the hottest places today to celebrate a child's birthday is at the animal shelter. Not only do you support a good cause, but it is lots of fun. Several shelters nationwide offer birthday parties for kids.

At the Longmont Humane Society in Colorado, a two-hour party, held in the community room, consists of animal-themed games, an animal-safety presentation, a visit from kid-friendly dogs, and a tour of the shelter. Each guest also receives a special goodie bag to take home. The donation for this much fun is $150.

Instead of gifts, some children ask their friends to bring something on the shelter's wish list. The parties bring people to the shelter who might not do so otherwise, and the best part is that some families even go home with a new pet.

Cancer Treatment Grants

Here is a fabulous company that provides grants for cancer treatment.

Zuke's, the maker of natural pet treats located in Durango, Colorado, pledges a percentage of its profits to The Dog and Cat Cancer Fund which offers grants to owners of pets with cancer who might not otherwise be able to afford treatment. The criteria include the pet's prognosis and the owner's financial need.

The company was named after a chocolate Labrador Retriever belonging to the company founder and CEO Patrick Meiering, who co-founded the fund in 2007 with his brother, Christopher.

In 2010 they donated $40,000. So far, grants have gone to more than 70 families of dogs and cats with cancer.

This is wonderful! Thank you Zuke's.

More information here.

Dogs Help Crime Victims Heal

Petting a dog has magical calming effects.

Carolyn Corbett created K9 c.a.r.e.s. victim support program in Colorado in 2007. It stands for Canine Assisted Reduction of Eventful Stress. In the program specially trained dogs work side-by-side with victim advocate volunteers to aid people who have experienced traumatic events or crimes.

Carolyn and her Golden Retriever Caitee are on call 24-7 with the Westminster Police Department to help victims immediately after a traumatic life-altering experience. The team also supports children under 18 before, during, and after court proceedings for a wide range of crimes. Caitee's job is similar to that of a comforting friend. She patiently hangs out with the person allowing them to pet, brush, or hug her.

Caitee is trained to bring a tissue to the person at the first sign of tears. Carolyn says that usually the person cries harder at first and then the crying changes to laughter. This begins the positive change in brain chemistry which is the beginning of the healing process.

Visit the website to learn more about the nonprofit organization and its plans to expand the program to other states.