To the editor:

Recently, I adopted a mother of several puppies from the Lawrence Humane Society. In the month preceding the adoption, I had the opportunity to see the workings of this exemplary Lawrence organization up close. We should all be grateful for the services it provides to our community in these difficult economic times. Many dogs and cats have been discarded by their owners who are unable or unwilling to care for them.

These animals are given efficient and sensitive care at the humane society. As a community, we need to not only applaud their fine work but also to help — by volunteering, providing much-needed items such as dog and cat food, towels, and paper towels and by helping provide public education in responsible care for our pets. Most of all, I recommend adopting a dog or cat as a family member.

Barbara Watkins,

Lawrence