06/15/2025
Howard was a community cat in Holden, MO, a rural town where there are a lot of cats with no homes. They live hard lives and we have taken many into rescue to find them forever homes. Howard was lucky enough to find a guardian angel in a local lady who provides shelter and feeds many of the town’s cats. He’s been part of her brood for many years but recently Howard began to decline in health. He has cancer and his mom has realized it’s time to help him pass peacefully - a gift we are so fortunate to be able to give the pets who have provided love and companionship to us throughout their lives. Like many people, though, his mom is on a limited budget and has not been able to afford to pay $200+ to have Howard euthanized at her local vet. Animals should never have to suffer because it’s too expensive to euthanize them. I told Howard’s mom to make an appointment today at the urgent vet and I will pay for the costs. Money is tight for me, too, so if you can make a donation to help Howard pass with dignity and comfort, it would be much appreciated. You can Venmo a tax-deductible donation to which will get the funds into the rescue account right away to cover the costs. Many states allow for individuals who work at shelters to become certified to perform euthanasia but Missouri and Kansas do not. A bill was sponsored in 2018 to allow for the licensing of euthanasia technicians in Missouri but it stalled. I am determined to get our state representatives to revisit this topic because we need more low-cost resources for people who want to do right by their pets but may not be able to afford the cost for an office visit and services at a private, urgent care or emergency clinic.