Remembering Your Special Pets

A few weeks ago a dear friend of mine had to have her horse put down. When our horses, dogs, cats, and for that matter--any pet, are older it is easier for us to deal with the pain of the loss. However, in this case the horse was only 5 years old so it was even harder for her to deal with.

After talking to her about her loss, I started to think of all those wonderful dogs, cats, and horses that I've owned in my life time and either had to put down for some reason or they died just of old age. And, I have to admit--except for the horses, many times I had the pet cremated and still have their remains in those little boxes they give you; but, I wanted something more.

Have found a place where I can get stones like the one below made and am planning to have several made for pets I have had and then plant a tree down by the barn and start surrounding the tree with these rememberence stones.

If you have ever had a pet that you really loved and want to fondly remember, suggest you "click" on the picture and see what you might want to do for your lost friends.

Breast Cancer Survivor

Below are some statistics from Colorado but my feeling is that what we experience here in Colorado is not much different that what goes on around the country. My research shows that over 2,800 men and women are diagnosed with breast cancer every year in Colorado and that 17% of those diagnosed are uninsured with another 25% reportedly carrying inadequate insurance coverage. Plus about 27% more lose their jobs because of their breast cancer diagnosis for a total of about 1,500 that can't meet the cost of their breast cancer and in many ways can't stick with their treatment plan and thus shorten their lives. And, not only is the breast cancer patient impacted--but their entire familiy.

Anyway, I am on a board member on a Colorado organization called Renee's Friends Fund which is a not for profit organizxation that provides non-medical financial assistance for Colorado breast cancer patients. Plus, 95% of all money collected is directly from or tied to the horse industry in Colorado. For example, last weekend at the Cottonwood Riding Club in Littleton Colorado a "Dressage" event was held which raised several thousands of dollars for Renee's Friends Fund.

One of the sources was a silent aution where a very lovely Breast Cancer Survivor Necklace was the "hit of the auction." If you go to http://www.prairiecountrystore.com/new374228.html, you can view this popular necklace and even buy one if you would like.

Also, if you would like to donate to Renee's Friends Fund please visit http://www.reneesfriendsfund.com/Donate/tabid/162/Default.aspx.

Would very much like to hear how other states address this issue.

Dale

http://www.prairiecountrystore.com/index.html

Welcome to Praire Country Store

Welcome to Prairie Country Store--this store isn't much different than one you would find around the country--maybe in smaller towns or out in the country side.

The purpose is to provide a place where we can talk about products and other things that add value to our lives whether within our homes or through those things we do in the out of doors. In fact, we have already started such a store at:

www.prairiecountrystore.com

Currently in the store are many items that will add to your life. From some very interesting arts and crafts and country jewelry to kitchen items for your use. Also you will find collectibles from Jim Shore and those little pesky Kitchen Faries. Plus items for your Dogs and Cats.

But, one of the topics we would like to see get developed in this blog is were to trail ride with your horses and mules? Where are some good trail ride vacation spots--whether that is camping out or day riding out. And, as we develop this topic it is hoped that we end up with a long list of places were we can ride in this country.

Anyway, lets get going!!