As I prepare to write this holiday message, wrapped in my sweater against the cool, crisp weather - and with my cat, Jackson, sprawled across my lap - I am filled with so many emotions.

Anticipation - I always love to tell the story of Furkids and the extraordinary work we are doing! This year is no exception, we have had another stellar year. We have taken in more than 400 more cats and 100 more dogs than we did last year. Adoptions are up, our transports to northern adoption centers have increased, and we are helping more animals and their families through our monthly vaccine and microchip clinics.

Construction is underway on the Sutherlin Dog Shelter and the Giaquinto Medical Center, which will open next Spring and vastly expand our capacity to save more animals. And we recently opened our new Adoption Center and Pet Boutique in Johns Creek. There is so much to look forward to, and the future is bright!

Worry - At the same time, we face real challenges. How will we care for all the animals that need us? Expenses continue to increase - food, medicine, the cost of running our shelters. As we expand our capacity, costs surge even more. It is a constant concern. Additionally, each year our staff and volunteers witness extraordinary cases of cruelty and hardship. There is a burden to this work, our team experiences the pain and suffering of the animals we rescue and those we cannot save. I worry about our staff and volunteers who soldier through each time their wits and spirits are tested.

Wonder - In the midst of this chaotic and challenging work, I am amazed at the overwhelming generosity and support that we experience from so many. From our amazing staff that show up each and every day with grit and determination, our volunteers who shoulder tremendous responsibility and lead with love, and our adopters who open their homes and hearts, to our partners who work alongside us and our donors who make so many dreams come true - we are truly blessed beyond measure. I could not have imagined such a journey when it all began 24 years ago!

Love - The love of animals is a magical tonic, soothing in a profound way. I have learned about love from all the animals that have been a part of Furkids. We earn these animals' trust with love and patience - in time they give back their love ten-fold. It is a wondrous thing to behold.

This season invites reflection - and in that quiet space, I feel deep gratitude for the abundance in my life. I am excited for what lies ahead. And I am inspired by you - our supporters. In a world that can feel fractured, your generosity is a beacon of unity and compassion. You remind me that together, we can mend what is broken and build something beautiful.

I am proud of our accomplishments, but there is still more to do. Please make an end-of-year gift to Furkids today! Your donation brings hope, healing, and a second chance to animals in need.

From all of us at Furkids, thank you for standing with us. May your holidays be filled with warmth, joy, and the kind of love only a rescued animal can give.

With heartfelt thanks,

Samantha Shelton
CEO & Founder