Give in a positive way this Easter not live animals

CONROE, Texas - The Easter season is a time for giving praise, and the tendency to want to give goes along with it, but it can be somewhat misguided. Baskets overloaded with candy and confections can be supervised, but presenting live animals as Easter presents typically results in a greater burden for the parent than a gift the child will love and cherish for the animal’s lifetime.

Thousands of baby chicks, ducks and bunnies are purchased every year as Easter gifts only to be abandoned or taken to shelters once the novelty has worn off. Most animal welfare organizations are not equipped to handle these species of animals, says Cheryl Conley of the Texas Wildlife Rehabilitation Coalition, Inc. (TWRC). “Sadly many are euthanized because homes cannot be found for them,” said Conley. “Some think it’s okay to release these animals into the wild. This means certain death. They cannot fend for themselves and will die of starvation, exposure to the elements, or will be preyed upon by other animals.”

Conley cautions about the health risks. Baby chicks and ducklings often carry the harmful bacteria Salmonella, which can infect children.

In the spirit of giving during this time, A-Plus Caring, Community & Compassion donates much-needed feed and other essential items to TWRC, to assist with the overwhelming number of spring arrivals. Nature’s urban wildlife keeps TWRC inundated during this time, which makes it impossible for them to take on the unwanted Easter presents too.

“This is one of the annual contributions that A-Plus Caring, Community & Compassion makes, and we try to time it when the need is greatest,” said founder, Carolyn Gerken, of A-Plus C3.

Conley underscored that spring is their busiest time, but donations of feed, bedding, and especially cash, is welcome anytime.

This Easter season, think about giving in a positive way. Avoid contributing to the mills that produce the baby farm animals for Easter presents.Give instead to animal rehabilitation organizations that desperately need help. For more information about TWRC view the link provided. To make a donation click on Donate to TWRC.