Southeast Missourian

Donations, including holiday contributions, to the Humane Society of Southeast Missouri are down 50 percent compared to last year at this time.

"We are probably getting as many donations, but people are not giving as much," said Donna Ernest, executive director. "And I understand that. People are just stretched to the limit this year."

Ernest attributes this drop in funding to uncertainty about the future considering affairs with Iraq at this time, stock market woes and a sluggish economy.

Within the past week, Southeast Missouri's local shelter has adopted out nine to 10 pets each day. However, they still adopt out only about one of every four animals they get.

"And we are getting in great animals, some wonderful dogs and cats, already spayed and neutered. They are ready to go back out when they come in, but there just aren't enough homes for all of them," Ernest said.

The Humane Society is grateful for the donations they have received, Ernest said. In addition to money, the shelter accepts items such as dog blankets, bleach, paper towels, toilet paper and office supplies. A "begging list" can be found on the society's Web site at www.semopets.org.

In order to beef up support, the shelter has added a raffle to its auction in March. For $100 per ticket, raffle participants buy the chance to win a 2003 Jeep Wrangler. Only 350 tickets will be sold.

The Wrangler is on display at Westfield Shoppingtown West Park. Tickets may be bought at the shelter. Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday. Call the Humane Society at 334-5837 for more information.

jgosche@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 133