Please see more under "How We Help Homeless Animals."

Don't Forget To Love Your Pet^® was inspired through our volunteer efforts on behalf of homeless dogs in upstate New York (please see www.dogsinneedeverywhere.org). It was 2006 and I had come home one day after delivering some items to the pups at one of the many shelters in our area. I had heard more sad stories and watched an "owner-surrender" come in. Of course the dog had no way of comprehending why it was being left in a loud building full of strangers. It was so heartbreaking to watch the fear and pain in that dog's eyes. When I was recounting the story to my husband that evening, I was struggling with just what I would like to say to the people who think of their pets as disposable commodities. Although there are many other choice phrases, what I finally said was simply, "Don't Forget To Love Your Pet."

The graphics go back to 2001. Just after we became engaged, my husband drew a picture of us and our "only child" LaForge. It has remained on the refrigerator ever since. Our wedding invitations were designed with the same classy stick figures, and we followed that up with stick figure Christmas card "photos." Ray says that he drew stick figures because it's the only thing he can draw. Little did he know how much mileage they would get! The goal is to add other animals to the "Don't Forget" message. To the chagrin of several friends who have suggested a guinea pig, a horse design is in the works. Ray is also working on designing a mouse pad so please stay tuned.

Original Graphic	Wedding Invitation

-- Kathleen Collar