The pets in our lives have a unique way of making every day better, helping us take ourselves less seriously, and learn to live in the joy of each moment. Last week as I was driving to work, I heard my friend Laura on the radio talk about an organization she works with called Austin Pets Alive! She was talking about a dog that was rescued the day before and was working to raise money to help fix his hind legs that would drag behind him when he walked.

I was unable to adopt when I got Lucy for various reasons and I picked her up from a farm out in Giddings where her owners were selling a litter of dogs for $100 each. I’ve always believed strongly in adoption and hope to be able to pay back some of what Lucy has given me by fostering or adopting other dogs in the future.

Since last summer, Austin Pets Alive! has helped save over 1,500 dogs and cats from euthanasia. In just over a year, the organization has helped drop the euthanasia rate over 20%. With our help, Austin could become a no-kill city very quickly.

For my birthday this Monday, I am asking my friends, family, networks, and readers to help me sponsor 10 abandoned pets that deserve a second chance. With your help, we have already raised about $400 to save the life of four innocent dogs and cats.

Just $100 saves one dog or cat from immediate death at Austin’s shelter. I’ve sponsored one rescue in honor of my dear friend Lisa A. and am hoping that with your generosity, we can save at least six more in the next 24 hours. I know we can do it! Please give as little or as much as you feel comfortable with and of course your donation is tax deductible.

For more information about Austin Pets Alive!, visit http://www.austinpetsalive.org. To make a donation as part of my campaign, click on the box below.

Lucy is begging you! Thank you so much.