One of our supporters recently emailed me to ask what the cost of care was for a dog coming into the shelter. I thought if they were interested in what the cost of care was, maybe my readers might be interested as well, so here you go.These are the average costs for a dog that comes into the shelter.First-day processing, evaluation, and care- $98.00Spay/neuter surgery--------------------------  $85.00Internal/external parasite protection---------$20.00Rabies vaccination-----------------------------$10.00Vaccination series------------------------------$20.00Basic diagnostic tests--------------------------$20.00Registered microchip--------------------------$15.00TOTAL-----------------------------------------$268.00These amounts do not include the cost of the building, utilities, animal care staff salaries, or any other animal care costs, (hear more)

The Heart of a Child

I have been writing animal and pet-related columns for many different publications over the years, including the Daytona Beach News-Journal and Seniors Today. During this time, I have written over one hundred columns and have nurtured a reader base of once just a few to now many thousands and still growing.Some of the columns are more informational, while others are stories and, in some cases, even whimsical. I have always been an animal lover. I am one of those people who believe the first thing that happens when you arrive at the pearly gates is being greeted by the pets you have lost over the years. Oh, how I truly hope this is the case. I would gladly pick up the dog poop from sixteen dogs and one cat if I could spend eternity with my best friends. (Also hoping no one or animal poops in heaven, but if that's the case, so be it.)All proceeds from the sale of this book will go to benefit shelter animals. At the time of this writing, I am the Community Outreach Director of Halifax Humane Society in Daytona Beach, FL. The lion's share (75%) of the proceeds will be donated to this organization. The remaining balance will be donated to smaller rescues in need of funding to maintain their operations.Thank you for purchasing or downloading this book. Your kindness and generosity are much appreciated. Remember, adopt, don't shop.