This year during the holiday season the UNM Staff Council, as part of its PAWS Charity Drive for Homeless Pets, is collecting items such as distilled water, milk bones, blankets, canned dog and cat food and cat toys to help animal shelters. To see a complete wish list of needed items and a donation site near you, visit the Staff Council website at UNM Staff Council. The donation deadline has been extended through Monday, Dec. 13 at 12 p.m. The PAWS Charity Drive for Homeless Pets is sponsored by the Work + Life Committee of the Staff Council.

At Animal Humane alone, 4,361 pets have been adopted this year, and apart from housing those waiting for adoption, shelters such as this also advocate on behalf of and work to improve the lives of animals through community education, veterinary services, behavioral services, as well as foster care and outreach programs. To learn more, visit: Animal Humane Association New Mexico.

A little generosity can go a long way to help the helpless; please consider donating to this worthy cause and help our furry friends, lonely and in shelters, patiently waiting for their forever homes.

Media Contact: Steve Carr, (505) 277-1821; e-mail: scarr@unm.edu