With some animals, it's a case of too many. For others, too few. Animals headed for extinction include the Syberian tiger (only about 200 left in the wild); the Giant Otter; the Nile Crocodile; the Iberian Imperial Eagle (only 150 pairs); the Sea Turtle; the Mountain Gorilla (600); the Scarlet Macaw; the African Black Rhinoceros (2,000); the Giant Panda (1,000). Most of these animals are hunted down for their skin. The sea turtle is prized for its meat. Meanwhile, many other animals are also at risk through habitat destruction, man's obsession with their body parts (elephant tusks, for example), and disease.
And then there are millions and millions of cats and dogs. No danger of either of these species becoming extinct. Indeed, the streets of Puerto Rico offer the sad spectacle of too many derelict cats and dogs scrounging for a bite to eat. Some of them were abandoned by their owners, others are animals who got lost or ran away in a moment of wild abandon. While out on the street, abandoned or lost animals will reproduce, as is the law of nature, and in so doing, add to the ever growing population of strays.
Which is why it is so important for animal owners to spay or neuter their cat or dog, in case that pet should get lost in the future. It's no secret that sterilization is an expensive service but just in time for the holidays the Humane Society of Puerto Rico has come to the rescue with an unbeatable offer: on December 24 and December 31 they will neuter male cats at a cost of $25 (the price includes the rabies vaccine). All you have to do is call the organization and make an appointment for your pet (787.645.3418). Space is limited but an employee at the organization said they will try to fit in as many operations as possible within the allotted time of half a day.
Even if you miss out on the deal, the Humane Society of Puerto Rico is a good option for affordably priced pet vaccinations and sterilizations. This service is available Monday through Saturday by appointment. The cost: $55 for dogs up to 50 pounds; $75 for dogs between 51 and 71 pounds; and $90 for dogs between 75 and 90 pounds. Male cats: $45; females, $50.
Other services the organization provides out of its base in Guaynabo ( in back of Caribbean Cinemas) are: vaccinations and implanting pet microchips for easier tracking of lost pets. Check out its website -- www.hspr.org -- for more information.
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Photography by Denise Blasor
"The meaning of life is to find your gift.
The purpose of life is to give it away" |
MERCADO SF207
Concalma, known for its signature tote bags made by a women's coop in Puerto Rico, is playing host to a group of young green designers eager to show off their talents. Store owner/designer Matilsha Marxuach has invited 11 fellow designers to join in a collective market that will run from Thursday until Sunday, Dec. 23. The selection includes clothing, head pieces, accessories, and more.
Concalma, San Francisco 207, Old San Juan
Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Copyright 2012© Lorraine Blasor All Rights Reserved⚑
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