Paw Pals’ Pet
Calendar—Its Introduction
By Sarah Bennett of
Hillsboro,
Texas
The first Hill County Paw Pals (HCPP) pet calendar is a celebration of the many
successes and goals achieved by this local grassroots organization. Since 2004 the
number of dedicated volunteers has grown from just over 30 to over 1,000, each working
together toward the goal of making
Hill
County
a safer, more humane home for its human and animal residents.
Through numerous educational articles in local newspapers and postings on
their website (www.hcpawpals.org), HCPP has spread a message of responsibility and
awareness about the dangers of pet overpopulation and the desire of the citizens
of
Hill
County
for proper animal control including a county-wide animal shelter. Through a partnership
with the Texas Coalition for Animal Protection, monthly clinics in
Hillsboro
have sterilized and vaccinated thousands of dogs and cats. From most generous philanthropy
and through ongoing fund raisers like the County-wide Garage Sale and Waggin’ Trail
Bike Ride, over $400,000 in donated funds have been raised specifically for construction
of an animal shelter.
But of all of the group’s accomplishments to date, this calendar brings into focus
the individual successes and triumphs of the HCPP adoption program. Each month features
a once unloved, abandoned or even abused animal that has been adopted by a loving
family. These beautiful photos capture the hope and happiness that every rescued
animal possesses.
The volunteers who work behind the scenes rescuing and rehabilitating area animals
including those who pull unwanted dogs from the Hillsboro pound, often just hours
before they are set to be euthanized, are true angels on earth. They see what others
cannot or will not see: the companionship, devotion and unconditional love an animal
is willing to give an adoptive family.
The companion animals featured in this 2010 pet calendar are just a sampling of
the hundreds of happy endings that the devoted HCPP volunteers have made happen.
Throughout the coming years, these volunteers will continue to rescue, educate,
raise funds and raise awareness, not for their own glory, but because they care
about our community.
Hill
County
is truly blessed to have such dedicated and selfless residents. This calendar is
a wonderful way to thank and honor them.