HERE - the Santa Fe Animal Shelter and Humane Society

Blazing a Path of Loving Kindness for All
Anonymous donors offer a boost – and a challenge – to our Humane Education program
Tom Alexander
Being kind to animals may seem
like a given. For some people,
however, having a close relationship
with a companion animal
– even considering them a
part of the family – may seem unusual.
That’s why our Humane Education
program is so important for the
community and especially for our
children. Tom Alexander, our Humane
Education Coordinator, reaches out
to hundreds of children every year in
their classrooms, in school auditoriums,
in their clubs, at the Shelter, and
one-on-one, patiently allowing many
young people to understand for themselves
how important it is to love and
properly care for animals.
The results are amazing. Many
young people tell Tom that they never
knew dogs had feelings or that keeping
them chained-up 24-7 isn’t ideal.
Every year, several classrooms have
come to support Tom’s work through
sponsoring animals, making gifts for
the shelter, or simply making positive
changes with their own animals.
Now, thanks to a group of anony-
Tom said. “One of my strong beliefs is
that if animal neglect and abuse is to
be reduced long-term, it must begin in
the hearts and minds of New Mexico’s
young people.”
Tom, in addition to reaching out
to schools and youth organizations, will
lead this summer’s fourth year of Critter
Camp. The popular camps allow children
to see first-hand the Shelter’s work
with animals, and how even the most
fearful and withdrawn cats and dogs
Would you like to
help support Humane
Education in our region? The
grantors challenge others
to step up and support this
important work by donating
additional funds to support the
coordinator and the program.
For more information about
how you can help, please
contact our donor relations
office at 983-4309 ext. 204.
If
animal neglect and abuse is to be reduced...
it must begin in the hearts and minds of
New Mexico’s young people.
mous donors, Tom’s position is being
funded. Not only does that mean
Tom’s work is being acknowledged but
he can do more to reach our community’s
young people.
Tom, in response to the generosity,
offered his thanks and appreciation.
“For the last 13 years, it’s been
my privilege to volunteer my time
on behalf of the Shelter and its desire
to promote a caring and loving
environment for companion animals
and a respect for all living things,”
can be transformed when given the
love and care they deserve. Tom said
he most appreciates the magic that
happens when children and animals
are together. He said the bond has
the power to “effect both in positive
ways that can last a lifetime.”
The grant, with its recognition
of the importance of humane education,
has “re-energized and motivated
me to strengthen my efforts and look
for new ways to expand the program,”
he said.
8 | Animal TRACKS