The following text may have been generated by Optical Character Recognition, with varying degrees of accuracy. Reader beware!

UCHS relies on community donations JUDITH-ANNE KOLU Upper Credit Humane Society volunteer The hurry, scurry, the excited eyes of the children, the squeals of joy, the wag of a tail knocking over the tree, cats pouncing on wrapping paper, the lights, the decorations, the PRESENTS, such is the anticipation of the Christmas season that is upon us once more in homes across the country. For many families the family "pet" is also someone to be shopped for. Who as a pet owner can resist making up a stocking for that special canine, or feline? Sometimes it doesn't stop at one. A new little coat for "Suki", a diamond collar for "Bijou", a new bed (although they have at least two already) for "Zoom" because nothing is too good or too much for that perfect furrball you call your own. Please wait for a minute. You are an animal lover, we know that and we are so happy for "Suki", "Bijou" "Zoom" and all the wonderful others who are so lucky to have your love and homes of their own. Could you stop just for a moment as you reach into your wallet for money to buy that extra toy, bed, treat, lead, scratching post and think of donating that $5, $10, $15, $20 (any amount would be welcome) to the Upper Credit Humane Society whose residents are also deserving, trusting and loving and oh so needy (spending Christmas with us is not an ideal scenario as they long for their own homes). Ask your "Suki" or "Bijou" "Zoom" what they think. Animals don't care if they have four toys, three beds, myriads of leads and collars. Of course they want food, love and yes, some comforts, some toys and other luxuries. However, if asked we feel they would say "Go ahead Mum/Dad-- go for it, donate to the UCHS in my name and feel so good inside. That is what I would like you to do." UCHS does not have coffers of money to look after these animals, who come in a constant stream, we RELY ON PUBLIC DONATIONS to enable us to carry out our mandate of trying to give all animals that come through our doors a fighting chance at a new life. Our veterinary bills alone drain our finances, but we firmly believe that spay and neuter, vaccinations, meds (if required) give the animal the best possible start before it begins its new life in its new home. So as you look at your beloved pet's face, think of all those other faces, waiting, and our dedicated staff and volunteers who also need your help to maintain the standard of care we have attained. On Christmas morning, as "Suki", "Bijou" "Zoom" play at your feet, our staff and volunteers will be giving up time with their families to make sure our animals are well taken care of. Our agents will be on call and mobilized-- such is their dedication to animals. The need for money and care does not stop even for Santa and Christmas! UCHS animals are hoping that at this special time of year, peace and goodwill will extend to them. They anxiously wait to see who will answer their call, and make a monetary donation to help them. Over 1,400 animals have found new homes since the Shelter opened three years ago, and they too join us in asking YOU for YOUR continuing help. Donations will be accepted by cheque, Visa or cash. Our address is: 5383 Wellington Rd 24, Erin, On NOB 1TO. Website: www.uppercredit.com and Shelter phone: 519-833-2887. Free Wilson Wilson is a neutered male born in 2001. He is laid-back, sweet-natured and friendly. Wilson must spend his days in a cage as he requires a special diet and cannot be allowed to eat the food that is always out for the cats in the open concept cat room. No he is not ill, just has a delicate stomach and needs to eat hypo-allergenic veterinarian cat food (same cost as a good quality regular food). His exercise times out with the other felines (who he loves) seems so short, and he is getting more and more anxious and upset going back into that horrid cage! The staff are worried that he is becoming depressed and could get sick. Can you "free Wilson"? You will have an amazing companion if you do! Call the Shelter, 519-833-2287 to meet him.