This holiday season, be thankful that you have the luxury of being the guardian of your pet’s health.  Pet guardianship is a voluntary choice ideally made with the intention of expanding the traditional perception of family to include members of different species. The companionship of a dog, cat, or other pet adds value to the family unit by teaching lessons of responsibility, patience and compassion.

Our Thanksgiving celebrations pay homage to those things for which we are most grateful.  Shouldn’t our health and that of our pets be highest on the list?  For 9 of the past 10 years, my family and I participate in a 10K foot race in Delaware on Thanksgiving morning.  Not only is the run a healthy way to start our day of feasting, but the event raises significant money for the National MS Society Delaware chapter.  I recognize that there are many people afflicted with MS who are physically unable to run, or even walk.   My participation in and fundraising for the event is my means of expressing gratitude for my health.  

As I prepare for the race, the health of my dog (Cardiff) benefits from accompanying me on training hikes and runs.  As Cardiff’s health has previously been compromised by two episodes of Immune Mediated Hemolytic Anemia (IMHA), I am extremely grateful that his illness is currently in remission.  Now that Cardiff is healthy again, I have my activity buddy back and we can participate in physical exercise together again.  

Make your holiday season philanthropic by giving back to organizations that aim to improve the lives of people and pets.  Recognize that your contributions can make a great difference in the lives of those in need of assistance.

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