This year has brought many extra challenges to most of us. I myself had been struggling with improving the circumstances of my own personal life, before the pandemic even hit. However, as I look back at this past year, I still see so much I can be grateful for amidst all of those difficulties. Taking It To The Streets with Lori and Shira has always given me a ‘purpose, even during my darkest days. Being on the streets seven days a week and dealing with the lives of the homeless and their pets really helps to put things in better perspective. I cannot put into words how fortunate I feel to have the support of so many people, where my charity is concerned. YOU are the reason I have been able to keep myself in check and why I am able to be of service. I want to say ‘Thank You’ to each and every person who has donated to the work I/we do. Those we serve may not know your names or your faces but I always make sure to let them know that what I/we do for them is mostly due to all of the people they never come in contact with. I never forget who is responsible for the accomplishments of this organization…..As far as today is concerned, I did what I usually do on Thursday’s. I went to the Motel6 to check on two of the spay recipients from yesterday and I visited another pet as well. In addition, I started to distribute the ‘Love Boxes’ aka ‘Love Bag’ that came together from a project AnimalVictory.org and Taking It To the Streets with Lori and Shira did together. When I left the motel, I went to the clinic to pay for yesterday’s surgeries and Tuesday’s well checks. On my way there, I drove to where I thought a homeless woman might be with her dog so I could give them a ‘Love Bag’ and other supplies…This year is ending the same way it began by giving service. My hope is to stay in good health so I can do the same in 2021. Nestle Pure Life waters, Mobil fuel cards, McDonalds gift cards, paper towels, cracker packs, beef sticks, protein bars, collar, pet sweaters, pet toys, bacon flavored dental sticks, kabob chew sticks, chicken jerky treats for dog, Inaba Churus for cats, wet cat food and AnimalVictory.org ‘Love Boxes’ aka ‘Love Bags’ were shared.

Today was our last spay/neuter day of 2020. Our final count for the year was 196. That is lower than previous years but not bad considering we have been in a pandemic for so many months. This morning, we had two female dogs and one female cat scheduled for 'the works'. They were not all on time but thankfully they all made it! We were very fortunate to get a pledge from Actors and Others to help pay for their surgeries and AnimalVictory.org to pay for their services. We would also like to thank all of you who have donated throughout the year to help us continue with our work. There is no Us without YOU! "One by one we get them done, because the only way to combat pet overpopulation and euthanasia in our shelters is to spay and neuter".

I was unable to meet someone at Fairmount Park yesterday due to the gates being closed off from all of the flooding. I decided to try again this morning and I was able to get in. I spent some time visiting the dog I was there to see and then I drove over to the Eastside. The rain kept me from people over there yesterday as well so I thought I would try again/ I had no luck on Massachusetts, Blaine and Iowa or Hunter Park so I made a quick trip back to my house and then went back out. My first stop was at Riverside County Animal Services. I had to pick up all of the license tags from the past few weeks, before heading over to the MSRPAC Clinic. I did not have any spay/neuter surgeries this morning but I did have two pets coming in for well checks. After I got them situated, I headed to our PO Box and then stopped at a store where an order was waiting for pick up. That order is for the ‘Love Boxes/Bags’ I am putting together for AnimalVictory.org. I hope to get that project completed and begin distribution by the end of the week. Nestle Pure Life waters, hand warmers, beef sticks, beef jerky, protein bars, candy canes, canned ravioli, cracker packs, pet sweaters, wet cat food, Inaba tuna fillets for pets, Inaba chicken fillets for pets, Inaba Churus for cats, chicken jerky treats for dogs, bully stick and pet toys were shared.

The rain made it nearly impossible to be of much service today. Even though I spent a couple of hours driving around, I only visited with two pets. I started on the Eastside by driving up Massachusetts Avenue. Everyone must have been in the shelter and the pallet houses, because nobody was outside. I was hoping to catch a few people walking their dogs but that did not happen. My next stop was on University. I was looking for the people who were ‘no shows’ at the clinic last week as well as some other pets. The only one I found was ‘Solo’, so I spent time with him. My next stop was going to be at Fairmount Park but they had all of the entrances closed off. I was planning on meeting at least one person and her dog there and possibly others but that became impossible. I told the person who was waiting for me that I would try again tomorrow. From there I drove around Jurupa Valley on my way to our PO Box. When I left the post office, I drove behind some buildings and found that there were homeless people sleeping there. One of them had a dog so I pulled over and parked. It was still raining pretty hard but I was able to get some new sweaters on the dog and some supplies to the people too. I was cold and damp by this time and headed home. Nestle Pure Life waters, hand warmers, paper towels, socks, beef sticks, beef jerky, protein bars, candy canes, cookie packs, canned ravioli, cracker packs, pet sweaters, wet dog food, Inaba tuna fillets for pets, Inaba chicken fillets for pets, chicken jerky treats for dogs and pet toys were shared.

My first stop of the day was at one of the river bottom outlets. I was asked to bring supplies for a couple that has two dogs and three cats. While I was waiting for one of their companions to show, someone else walked out with a small dog I had not met before. I was able to spend time with them while I waited. When the companion of the other pets arrived, she had one of her dogs and another dog I did not know. That dog followed her up the hill and joined us. She is not spayed and I was told her companions do not want to have that done but I am hoping they change their minds. After leaving this location I drove through Fairmount Park and by one of the homeless encampments in Rubidoux. I was unable to connect with anyone so I continued to one more area of Riverside. The dog came running out of the tent but his companion did not. After calling out his name a few times, he finally answered and told me he was not well. He thought he had strep throat. I am not sure what he has but after filling a bag with supplies for both of them and visiting with the dog, I headed for home. Nestle Pure Life waters, large bag of recyclables, hand and toe warmers, paper towels, socks, toilet tissue, beef sticks, beef jerky, protein bars, candy canes, cookie packs, canned ravioli, cracker packs, pet sweater, pet toys, 17 pound bag of cat food from the Star Milling Company, 20 pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company, wet dog food, wet cat food, Inaba tuna fillets for pets, Inaba chicken fillets for pets, chicken jerky treats for dogs, bacon flavored dental sticks, bully slices and kabob chew sticks were shared.

There are over 7,000 people on this page yet the last video clip I posted says it reached 57 people. Before the new format, we used to reach a couple hundred and that was bad enough but this is even worse. Facebook does its best to limit the views, if we do not buy ads. Please consider sharing as many posts as possible so we can start reaching more people. It is disappointing doing all of this work and then seeing that it is being buried ...I had to go to our storage units this morning in order to sign new lease agreements, pick up our last pet carrier for someone whose carrier fell apart and to drop off what was left of the Christmas supplies. I had to go to Arlington by Van Buren so I thought I would look for ‘Kawasaki’. When I arrived, she was zipped into her tent with her companion. I called out to see if they might be willing to get up, because I had a few things I wanted to give to them. They did and I spent some time visiting. From there I drove around Magnolia Center but did not find anyone with pets so I went straight to the storage facility. I picked up something that needed to go to the Eastside and decided to go ahead and take care of that today. On my way, I drove around Shamel Park but did not find anyone with pets. While on the Eastside I made two stops and visited with five pets, before heading back across town to our PO Box. I had received email notifications that some of what I had ordered for the ‘Love Bags’ was there. We also received Amazon Gift Cards from an organization called PAWS. Thankfully, the post office is no longer crazy busy. I was able to pick up the packages fairly quickly and was home in time to give my dogs their late morning outdoor break. Nestle Pure Life waters, socks, Pet Carrier, fleece blanket, hand warmers, beef sticks, beef jerky, protein bars, candy canes, cookie packs, canned ravioli, pet sweaters, leash, pet toys, small bag of dog food, wet dog food, hemp pet chews, doggie waste bags with leash clip, Inaba tuna fillets for pets, Inaba chicken fillets for pets, chicken jerky treats for dogs, bacon flavored dental sticks and kabob chew sticks were shared.

I had to run out early to get fuel, before I hit the streets. I brought some homemade cookies to CircleK and gave them to the employee who was there. She said she was working until 3pm and then another employee was coming on. That is all they had for the day. The woman was telling me she is unable to join her family later but will spend the rest of the day with her young son. She may have been disappointed but she was not complaining. I know COVID-19 has changed the way many of us are doing things. Sadly, for others it is life as usual. Today, I am grateful for my health and the health of my family. I am sorry that neither of my children will be visiting today but as long as I know they are ok, I am too……..As I do on most Friday’s, today was spent on the Eastside. I did quite a bit of driving around but only made two actual stops. The first was in front of the pallet houses by the homeless shelter on Massachusetts. I gave some homemade cookies to one of the City Net staff members, checked out a dog that was found this morning and visited with four others. From there I drove to a location on University Avenue. I was hoping to find the couple that stood me up at the clinic on Wednesday but they were not around. The only pet there was ‘Solo’ so I spent some time with him, before driving over to my daughter’s house to drop off a few things. We masked up and socially distanced but I was still happy to see her. When I left her home, I got on the 60 freeway and headed to Rubidoux but I was unable to find anyone awake at the couple of places I looked so I decided to call it a day. Nestle Pure Life waters, fleece blanket, beef sticks, beef jerky, protein bars, Max and Neo, pet jacket, pet sweaters, leash, Christmas pet toys, Zippy Paws antler headbands for pets, wet dog food, stainless steel pet dish, Inaba tuna fillets for pets, Inaba chicken fillets for pets, Inaba Churus for cats, chicken jerky treats for dogs, bacon flavored dental sticks, bully slices and kabob chew sticks were shared.

I spent most of the morning at the Motel 6 in Jurupa Valley. I was there to meet someone who had donations of pet toys and sweaters for us as well as a gentleman whose dog had surgery yesterday. We did not provide the neuter for the dog but he wound up with an infection from it. Pets Of The Homeless took care of the medical costs at Van Buren Animal Hospital and we paid for a two-night motel stay so the dog could recuperate. While I was at the motel, I also visited with five other pets that were there. One of which I had not seen in a very long time and did not even recognize. Her companion said we had provided 'the works' for her. Once we got talking, I remembered the dog and made sure she got a few things. When I finally left the motel, I drove to our PO Box and picked up a package of some things I had ordered for the AnimalVictor.org 'Love Bags'. As I was driving there, I spotted woman pushing a shopping cart up Limonite with a little dog walking beside her. I recognized them and when I left the post office, I looked for and found them. It was my last time playing 'Santa' today. I will be out tomorrow looking to do it again. Nestle Pure Life waters, Subway Gift Cards, Burger King Gift Cards, Taco Bell Gift Cards, hand warmers, socks, beanie, toilet tissue, beef sticks, beef jerky, cookie packs, protein bars, canned ravioli, inflatable e-collar, Max and Neo Collar, Max and Neo leash, Christmas pet toys, Zippy Paws antler headbands for pets, pet sweater, wet cat food, wet dog food, bacon flavored dental sticks, bully slices, cows ears and bully stick were shared.

Please consider Checking out the Christmas Clearance Sales for Pets and possible purchasing something for the pets we visit daily. If we don't get any this year then the pets will not be looking festive next year. This includes Christmas Sweaters, Christmas Jackets, Christmas Accessories and Christmas Toys. It doesn't matter what size or how many. When they arrive, we will put them in storage and take them out next holiday season…..Today was the first day this year that nobody showed up for their pets appointments at the Spay/Neuter Clinic. We had three scheduled but nobody contacted me to say they were not coming….Rather than dwell on the frustration, I am doing our 'holiday plea' now and including some of the pets we were able to dress up in 2020. A few of the items were donated recently but nearly all came from Post-Christmas Clearance Sales in 2019. All of these pets are spayed/neutered. Taking It To The Streets with Lori and Shira provided the surgeries for 33 of those you see here... Our mailing address is 8082 Limonite Avenue, Suite 1 #3678. Jurupa Valley, California 92509. We thank you in advance if you are able to help. Please Share whether you are able to make a purchase or not. ~Spread A Little Kindness Today~

I was hoping to make my first stop of the day in Rubidoux but people were either not at their camps or not awake so that did not work out. I was finally able to park at one of the river bottom outlets and visit with a dog I had seen in a while. He has a feline sister but she was not in the mood to come out and join us. My next stop was at Fairmount Park where I visited with three pets before driving back to the locations in Rubidoux where I was unsuccessful earlier. I did not have any better luck this time. I tried going to one last location in Jurupa Valley but I could not find the entrance to where the people were staying so I continued on to our PO Box. There were a few packages waiting for me there and as soon as I had them loaded in my vehicle, I headed home. Nestle Pure Life waters, Subway gift card, RTA all day bus pass, toilet tissue, beef sticks, beef jerky, canned ravioli, protein bars, cookie packs, socks, body wipes, 17 pound bag of cat food from the Star Milling Company, wet cat food, wet dog food, Inaba tuna fillets for pets, Inaba chicken fillets for pets, Inaba Churus for cats, chicken jerky treats, Christmas pet fleece jacket, Zippy Paws antler headbands for pets, Zippy Paws Christmas pet scarf, Christmas pet toys, Max and Neo collar Max and Neo leash, bacon flavored dental sticks, kabob chew sticks and bully sticks were shared.

Before I drove to the Eastside, I stopped to drop off some kitty treats to a friend. I drove to Hunter Park from there but the people and pets I was going to visit were still sleeping. I continued on to Massachusetts Avenue and made two stops. One was next to Recovery Innovations where I visited with two pets and the other was in front of the pallet houses where I visited with two more. All received Christmas items to wear and/or play with. When I left that location, I headed up Blaine, on my way to University. I have been unsuccessful finding a couple of pets in that area and today was more of the same. When I got to my destination on University, I found the companion of a puppy that is scheduled for ‘the works’ on Wednesday and I also found a dog we had provided ‘the works’ for a couple of weeks ago. I did not have enough free time before needing to get home so I drove straight to our PO Box to pick up a donation I knew was waiting for us. Nestle Pure Life waters, beef sticks, beef jerky, canned ravioli, protein bars, cookie packs, 20 pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company, wet dog food, Inaba tuna fillets for pets, Inaba chicken fillets for pets, Inaba Churus for cats, chicken jerky treats, Christmas pet sweatshirt, Zippy Paws antler headbands for pets, Zippy Paws Christmas pet scarf, Christmas pet accessories, Christmas pet toys, leash, bacon flavored dental sticks, kabob chew sticks, bully sticks and bully slices were shared.

I started my day at the Motel6 in Jurupa Valley. None of the people and pets I was visiting are staying there but they were able to meet me out front and in the parking lot. From there, I went to Avalon Park. Afterwards, I had planned on making a stop at one of the river bottom outlets but there was nowhere to park so I continued on to Fairmount Park. While driving through the park, I spotted a dog I had not seen in quite some time. I pulled into the parking lot to visit with her and try to make her look 'holiday ready'. Our selection of Christmas pet clothes and supplies is dwindling. It is getting more difficult to dress the pets but I was able to get an antler head band, pet scarf and jacket for her. Right about the time I was getting ready to leave, I noticed a dog and her companion walking in our direction. I could not remember the last time I saw them but I believe it has been close to a year. I am not sure why, but the gentleman was unable to speak above a whisper which made it impossible for me to hear him. I did not have time to look for something to dress his dog in but she did get other things including some of her favorite treats. My final stop was across town at our storage units. I loaded supplies in my vehicle and headed home. Nestle Pure Life waters, body wipes, beef sticks, beef jerky, canned ravioli, protein bars, cookie packs, fleece blankets, collapsible pet dish, wet dog food, small bag of dog food, Inaba tuna fillets for pets, Inaba chicken fillets for pets, chicken jerky treats, Christmas pet jacket, Zippy Paws antler headbands for pets, Zippy Paws Christmas pet scarf, Christmas pet sweater, Christmas pet dress, Christmas pet toys, bacon flavored dental sticks, kabob chew sticks, bully sticks and bully slices were shared.

My day started at one of the river bottom outlets. I was hoping to visit with a few people and their pets but a breakfast being put on by a church group left me with nowhere to park so I was unable to do so. When I left there, I drove to Avalon Park. I was expecting to find four pets and their companions but none were there and I had no idea where they went. I did speak to a gentleman with a dog. He said the dog was not friendly so I did not pet him but he had no problem eating the treats I had. From there it was over to Fairmount Park but I did not see anyone with pets. I had planned to meet Marci McCrea at the MSRPAC vaccination clinic around 10am so I headed that way. I got to visit with 'Lily', a kitten I had not seen since the day we helped rescue her. She looked great and we helped with her final FVRCP vaccine. Her spay us scheduled for the 30th. She will receive her rabies vaccination and microchip at that time. The other reason I was meeting Marci was to pick up a donation. She had boxes of snacks for me to distribute to the homeless. I could not fit all the boxes in my vehicle but we took most of the items out and stuffed them in wherever there was room. They will be a gift for so many people. When I left the clinic, I drove to a couple of locations in Jurupa Valley. Nobody with pets was at either so I made one last stop at our PO Box and called it a day. Nestle Pure Life waters, toilet tissue, body wipes, hand warmers, wet dog food, 20-pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company, Inaba tuna fillets for pets, Inaba chicken fillets for pets, chicken jerky treats, Christmas pet pajamas, Zippy Paws antler headbands for pets, Christmas pet toys, bacon flavored dental sticks, kabob chew sticks and bully slices were shared.

Ralph Torres has been doing our website for years and has never allowed us to pay him for his services. The only thing I can think of to do in order to show my gratitude is bake for him and his wife. She works but when she is on Facebook, she is always kind enough to give us a shout out and share our posts. I appreciate them and this morning I dropped some baked good off at her work before driving to the Eastside. It was windy again and not many people were out with their pets when I arrived on Massachusetts Avenue. I visited with two and as I was getting ready to leave, I visited with two more. From there, I drove over to University Avenue. I wanted to check on a dog that was in need of vet care. Last week, I provided his companions with the number to 'Feeding Pets Of The Homeless' and I was hoping to find out if the dog received medical care. The dog was not there but one of his companion's informed me that they left a call back message with POH. I did find 'Solo' and met a puppy named 'Tommy'. The puppy needs 'the works' and I offered to do that on Wednesday. I will have to wait and see if we can make that happen. When I left University Avenue, I had a long phone conversation with someone from AnimalVictory.org regarding the project we are working on. When our call was over, I stopped at our PO Box and picked up some of the things I had ordered for the project. It will take two or three weeks for everything to come in and then I have to assemble the bags for distribution. If all goes well, they will be given to people by the second week in January or sooner if possible. Nestle Pure Life waters, toilet tissue, body wipes, cracker packs, ravioli, cookie packs, candy canes, fun size snicker bars, doggie waste bags with leash clip, wet dog food, dog collar, leashes, Inaba tuna fillets for pets, Inaba chicken fillets for pets, chicken jerky treats, Zippy Paws Christmas pet scarf, Christmas pet pajamas, Zippy Paws antler headbands for pets, Zippy Paws Christmas pet hat, Christmas pet sweater, Christmas jacket, Christmas pet dress, Christmas cat and dog pet toys, bully stick, kabob chew sticks and bully slices were shared.

My first stop of the day was at the Motel6. I baked cookies for the front desk staff and for the housekeepers so I dropped that off before going to one of the rooms. The companion of the cat we spayed yesterday also takes care of her dog 'Mazi' and our old friend 'Yohan'. We do not normally put one cat in a motel room for the night but it had been a long time since either dog had been in a room so they are in one until tomorrow. I got to visit both dogs and make sure they had their Christmas outfits and toys. When I left the motel, I stopped and picked up some packages at our PO Box and then headed over to the MSRPAC Clinic. I needed to pay for yesterday as well as meet a couple who were bringing their pet to visit with me. By the time I paid the invoices and had some fun dressing the dog up in Christmas attire, it was time to head home. At lunch time, I met a dear friend for an outdoor lunch visit. Later in the afternoon, a couple of volunteers who I also consider friends stopped by so I could give them some of my baked goods. Tonight is the last night of Chanukah. My son could not be here but my daughter did come after work and I ordered Chinese food for us. The candles were already lit by then but it was still great having her here. Nestle Pure Life waters, Arco fuel card, Burger King gift card, cracker packs, ravioli, cookie packs, candy canes, fun size snicker bars, doggie waste bags with leash clip, doggie booties, collapsible pet dish, small bag of dog food, small bag of cat food, 20 pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company, wet cat food, wet dog food, Christmas pet collar, medium dog collar, leash, Inaba Churu fir cats, Inaba tuna fillets for pets, Inaba chicken fillets for pets, chicken jerky treats, Zippy Paws Christmas pet scarf, Zippy Paws antler headbands for pets, Christmas pet sweater, Christmas fleece jacket, Christmas cat and dog pet toys, bully stick, kabob chew stick and cows ears were shared.

The other day, I ran into the companion of a dog we spayed in 2018. The dog was in need of having her vaccinations updated and there was a new dog in the picture that needed 'the works'. I gave both dogs bags full of supplies and we agreed to meet at the clinic this morning. Sadly, the companions chose to be 'no shows' and did not have the courtesy to let me know they would not be there. In addition to those dogs, we had one more scheduled and two cats. The dog arrived on time but when my friend picked up the woman with the cats, we found out that she only had one with her. This meant our spay/neuter count went from four down to two. It caused the usual amount of frustration and disappointment, not having four to do but I was still grateful for the two we had. They brought our total to date to #1400! That is something to be very thankful for..."One by one we get them done, because the only way to combat pet overpopulation and euthanasia in our shelters is to spay and neuter".

I almost stayed home today, because of the wind and so I could get more baking done. Ever since those horrible winds on Thanksgiving, my allergies have been a mess. However, I committed to meeting a gentleman and his puppy at the MSRPAC Clinic so I decided to just go out for an hour or so before that. I started at the Motel6 in Jurupa Valley, dropped off some baked goods for the employees where our PO Box is and went looking for 'Kawasaki'. On my way, I pulled in to the empty Walgreens lot on Arlington and VanBuren when I saw code enforcement, police, trash trucks and City Net vehicles. I spoke to some of them but nobody had seen the dog or her companion so I drove a little further and found them up the street. I was there to see if 'Kawasaki' needed more chewable k-9 glucosamine. She did not but I still visited for a few minutes, before heading to the clinic. I was there for over an hour but the puppy and her companion had not been called in yet. I needed to get home so I asked to be called when it was their turn so I could figure out what we were and were not going to be able to do for the tiny baby. Thankfully she tested negative for parvo and as long as she doesn't become sick this week, we will spay her next week. Nestle Pure Life waters, fleece blanket, cracker packs, cookie packs, candy canes, snack sized snickers, canned ravioli, puppy pads, leash, small bag of dog food, wet dog food, wet cat food, Christmas pet toys, Christmas pet outfit, Christmas pet bandana, Christmas pet hat, harness, Inaba tuna fillets for pets, Inaba chicken fillets for pets, bully slices, bacon flavored dental sticks, kabob chew sticks, peanut butter chew sticks and chicken jerky treats for dogs were shared.

I am starting today’s commentary with my second trip of the day to Riverside Self Storage. I had a few things to take care of there. I loaded all of last year’s leftover Christmas pet toys and pet clothes in my vehicle. Once I distribute them, we will have nothing left so I am really hoping that people hit all of the clearance sales this year so we can re-stock everything. While at storage, I also met with three people to give them gift bags of my home-made soup and baked goods. The other job I had was to meet Christine Langdon who was picking up and delivering our monthly donation from the Star Milling Company. Unfortunately, they were out of cat food so we did not receive our 170-pound donation of that but we did receive our 400 pounds of dog food. We are so fortunate to be recipients of the generosity of Star Milling and to have someone as dedicated as Christine to do the pick-up and delivery…..The first part of the day was spent on the Eastside and was divided between Hunter Park and Massachusetts Avenue. I visited with four pets at the park and six more on Massachusetts. I was able to get a few more ‘holiday ready’ and pass out needed supplies. Nestle Pure Life waters, cracker packs, cookie packs, candy canes, snack sized snickers, canned ravioli, leashes, Tiller Tugs collar, Tiller Tugs tug toy, leashes, small bag of dog food, wet dog food, Christmas pet toys, pet pajamas, Christmas pet sweater, Christmas pet jacket, Zippy Paws Christmas pet scarves, Christmas pet toys, Zippy Paws pet safety vests, Inaba tuna fillets for pets, Inaba chicken fillets for pets, bully slices, cows ears, kabob chew sticks, peanut butter chew sticks and chicken jerky treats for dogs were shared.

Because my children were coming to the house tonight to celebrate Chanukah, I wanted to be sure I got everything done for the charity before they arrived. That gave me about ninety minutes to be on the streets and then a couple of hours to edit photos and take care of social media. I drove around the Arlington/Van Buren area looking for ‘Kawasaki’ but did not have any luck. I then headed to Magnolia Center where I found one of the five dogs I was hoping to see. My final stop was out in Rubidoux. I only visited with three pets but had an opportunity to share some of the Christmas supplies with them which was fun. After my last stop, I called it a day and went home to do a little clean up on the patio and balcony as well as get more food underway. Nestle Pure Life waters, body wipes, toilet tissue, cracker packs, cookie packs, candy canes, snack sized snickers, cup of noodles, canned ravioli, leashes, stainless steel pet dish, squeaky balls, Christmas pet toys, Christmas pet sweater, Christmas pet fleece jacket, Zippy Paws Christmas pet scarves, Zippy Paws Christmas pet hat, Inaba tuna fillets for pets, Inaba chicken fillets for pets, bully slices, cows ears, 20-pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company and chicken jerky treats for dogs were shared.

It felt like I needed a few more hours in the day today. I wasn't sure I would get everything done but thankfully I managed. One of my friends came down with COVID-19 and I wanted to be sure to get some of my soup and baked goods to her. I also had another friend who was getting some of the same and needed to figure out how to make that happen while still visiting a few pets and getting something else cooked for our Chanukah dinner tomorrow night. I started by going to Fairmount Park. I was looking for a woman who asked to have her two cats spayed/neutered on Wednesday. I needed more information to schedule the appointment but I could not find her. I could not find the other person I was looking for either so I continued driving to the Eastside. I drove through Hunter Park. I was hoping to find a woman and her two dogs but she was not there. I did find someone with her dog and two cats so I stopped for a visit. When I left there, I drove around Blaine and Iowa with no luck. I decided to stop somewhere on University where a few of the homeless have been staying. 'Solo' and his companion were there so I parked for a bit. I also met a couple of people with pets I had not met before. One had an adult dog needing medical attention so I gave his companions the number for Pets Of The Homeless. The other person had a small puppy that I suggested should not be running around when it has not had any vaccinations yet. When I left that location, I drove until I found a freeway ramp on to the 91 freeway and headed towards my friend's home. When I arrived, I left the bag by her door and texted to let her know it was there. I then drove to Smart and Final where I met another friend, gave her a bag with soup and baked goods and then picked up a couple of items I needed in order to package more of my baked goods. After that I went to our PO Box, picked up a few donations from there and called it a day. It was nearly lunch time and I needed to eat and get more of that holiday cooking done. Nestle Pure Life waters, cracker packs, cookie packs, candy canes, snack sized snickers, cup of noodles, Christmas pet t-shirt, Zippy Paws Christmas pet scarf, Christmas pet sweater, pet pajamas, Inaba tuna fillets for pets, Inaba chicken fillets for pets, Inaba Churus, wet cat food, 20-pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company, kabob chew sticks and chicken jerky treats for dogs were shared.

I wasn't sure I would be able to get everything done that was on my 'to do' list today but I made it work. At 6am, I put up a pot of broth for my matzah ball soup. When I left the house at 8am to hit the streets, I turned the fire off but left everything on the stove so it could begin soaking up the flavor of the veggies. I only spent 90 minutes on the streets, because I had a lot I needed to take care of at home. I figured a little time out is better than no time out. I went to Fairmount Park where I visited with four pets and made arrangements to spay/neuter a couple of cats for someone. My next stop was on Massachusetts by the pallet houses and homeless shelter. There were only two dogs outside the buildings and I spent time with one of them. When I left the Eastside, I drove over to our PO Box in Jurupa Valley to send a certified letter to a foundation that recently gave us a grant. I had to document everything the money was used for as well as send receipts. I sent it certified to make sure someone had to sign for it. I made a brief stop at the grocery store, after leaving the PO Box and then I headed home to put a fire back under my soup and cook something else too. At 11am I had a telehealth call which lasted an hour. When that was done, I got back to my cooking which I was doing until about 5pm. I put the soup being given to others in containers and they are in one of our fridges waiting to be delivered. I will need to do a little more cooking tomorrow and then the rest of what I am making for Sunday's dinner will need to be done on Sunday. It is much easier spreading the cooking out over a three-day period, because it allows me to attend to my charity for a bit. I am hoping to be out Saturday and Sunday but will have to see how things go. Nestle Pure Life waters, cracker packs, cookie packs, candy canes, cup of noodles, ravioli, fleece blanket, Christmas pet outfit, Zippy Paws pet head band with antlers, Zippy Paws Christmas pet toys, Zippy Paws Christmas pet scarf, Zippy Paws Christmas pet hat, Inaba tuna fillets for pets, kabob chew sticks, small bag of dog food, wet dog food and chicken jerky treats for dogs were shared.

I have been carrying the hygiene box and/or the snack box with me lately. The snack box is mostly crackers, cookies and cup of noodles. Before I hit the streets today, I went and bought about ten boxes of candy canes. I gave some away last year and people really seemed to like it so I thought I would do the same this year. If I run out, I will buy more. It isn't much but it is a little something that reminds people it is the holiday season. I only had two places I needed to go this morning. The first was the motel to check on the pets that received 'the works yesterday and to visit a couple more. The second was the MSRPAC Spay/Neuter Clinic. I had to take care of yesterday's invoices. I was done at the clinic a little before 11am so I ran a personal errand, stopped at our PO Box and then headed home. Nestle Pure Life waters, cloth face mask, disposable face masks, cracker packs, cookie packs, candy canes, cup of noodles, fleece blanket, harness, Christmas pet pajamas, Christmas pet sweater, Christmas pet jacket, Zippy Paws pet head band with antlers, Zippy Paws Christmas pet toys, Zippy Paws Christmas pet scarf, chicken jerky treats for dogs, Inaba chicken fillets for pets, kabob chew sticks, Inaba tuna fillets for pets, cows ears and bully slices were shared.

We had three dogs scheduled for 'the works' today and another scheduled for vaccination updates as well as flea/tick treatment. It turned out that one of the dog's was already neutered. He had been staying at Riverside County Department of Animal Services as part of the foster program they are doing there for the homeless. Some of the homeless have been put in motels where dogs are not allowed so they have been temporarily housed at the shelter. We knew they were going to give rabies vaccinations but were under the impression that everything else had to be done elsewhere. We never even checked the dog and then when we looked at the paper work we found it said he was neutered. His companions were never notified. So, we provided 'the works' for two dogs and the other two received the remainder of their vaccinations and flea/tick treated. "One by one we get them done, because the only way to combat pet overpopulation and euthanasia in our shelters is to spay and neuter".

I made arrangements to meet a dog and his companions behind the Veterans Memorial Park in Jurupa Valley. It was getting windy so I did not want to stay out there too long but once the dog arrived, I lost track of the time. When I left that location, I drove to two different locations around the Rubidoux area. The dogs that are usually at the one encampment were further down the river bottom visiting friends and the other encampment was empty so I contacted someone who stays fairly close to there. I told her I could arrive at our meeting place within ten minutes and asked if she might bring one of the dogs for a visit. She said yes so that was my next stop. I drove around a few other areas of Jurupa Valley but did not find anyone with pets so I ran an errand and headed toward our PO Box. On the way to the post office, I spotted a gentleman and a dog I stop for now and then. The dog is not a fan of anyone but his companion yet I still enjoy visiting. I gave the dog a new bed and we put a holiday sweater with a scarf on him. When I went to move the hood out of the dog's eyes, he just missed biting the side of my hand. He did not get me and continued to growl if I got too close. He has never really warmed up to me but being that he doesn't warm up to others either I don't feel too bad. Nestle Pure Life waters, body wipes, toilet tissue, pet bed, Christmas pet sweaters, Christmas collar, reversible holiday pet jacket, Zippy Paws Christmas pet scarves, Zippy Paws Christmas Zippy Paws Christmas Santa caps, Zippy Paws and other Christmas pet toys, Tiller Tugs tug toy, wet dog food, 20 pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company, Inaba tuna fillets for pets, Inaba chicken fillets for pets, bacon flavored dental sticks, chicken jerky treats, bully sticks cows ears and a stainless steel pet dish were shared.

I spent this morning at three locations on the Eastside. I went somewhere on University, Blaine and ended on Massachusetts. My goal was to dress up as many pets as possible and to spread some holiday cheer to them and their companions. I do believe that mission was accomplished! Nestle Pure Life waters, body wipes, toilet tissue, pet beds, fleece blankets, Christmas pet outfits, Christmas pet sweater, Zippy Paws Christmas pet scarves, Zippy Paws Christmas antler head bands, Zippy Paws Christmas Santa caps, Zippy Paws and other Christmas pet toys, wet dog food, Inaba tuna fillets for pets, Inaba chicken fillets for pets, bacon flavored dental sticks, chicken jerky treats, bully slice, bully stick, cows ears and kabob chew sticks were shared.

My family celebrates the holiday of Chanukah. It begins Thursday night and ends the following Thursday night. Last year we celebrated our first Chanukah in our new home. Because we downsized, there was not room for too large of a group but there were eleven of us. I did quite a bit of cooking and the night turned out to be so much fun. This year will be very different and I even wondered if I wanted to bother decorating. All we really need are candles and a menorah but I always like making the house look and feel festive. I decided that it was worth it, even if there were only three or four of us here to enjoy it. I did part of the decorating before I hit the streets today and the rest when I returned. While I was out, I helped some of the homeless prepare their pets for the Christmas holiday. As I have stated many times, it is not my holiday but I still enjoy dressing up the pets and giving them special toys and accessories. I was able to do that for six pets this morning. I will continue doing so, until we do not have anything left to give and then it will be back to the normal giving. I am grateful that so many people donate the holiday items and that I get to be the messenger of their kindness and generosity...Nestle Pure Life waters, body wipes, toilet tissue, Christmas pet outfits, Christmas pet sweater, Zippy Paws Christmas pet scarves, Zippy Paws Christmas antler head bands, Zippy Paws Christmas Santa caps, Zippy Paws and other Christmas pet toys, wet dog food, wet cat food, Inaba tuna fillets for pets, Inaba chicken fillets for pets, small bag of dog food, 20 pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company, Inaba Churus for cats, bacon flavored dental sticks, chicken jerky treats, bully slice, bully sticks, cows ears and kabob chew sticks were shared.

I was supposed to meet some people at one of the river bottom outlets this morning but there was nowhere to park so I had to keep going. There were no people or pets in the direction I was headed so I kept driving to our storage units. In the past, I had organized the Christmas pet supplies by the end of November but I fell behind. I decided it was ok to skip a day on the streets and just get things done at storage so I could begin sharing some of the holiday pet toys, clothes and accessories. I spent a couple of hours doing so and then stopped at our PO Box. A couple people ordered k9 glucosamine chewables for 'Kawasaki' (and any other dog that might need them). One of the orders was there today. After I picked it up, I drove to my house, emptied some of the other supplies I had loaded in my back seat and then went back out looking to give those chewables to a pet in need. I went straight to the Arlington-Van Buren area where I found the dog I was looking for. She got the chewables, her companion got supplies for the two of them and I had a chance to spread some pre-holiday cheer. By the time we were done, I really needed to get back home, in order to give my dogs a potty break. As I was driving, I took a little detour through a big parking lot where I found a few homeless and another dog I was hoping to see. She did not need the glucosamine but she is small and I wanted to dress her up in holiday attire. I spent the remainder of my free time with them and then went directly home. Nestle Pure Life waters, cracker packs, cookie packs, cup of noodles, k9 glucosamine chewables, collapsible pet dish, stainless steel pet dish, Christmas pet dress, Christmas pet collar, Christmas pet sweater, Zippy Paws Christmas pet scarves, Zippy Paws Christmas antler head bands, Zippy Paws Christmas Santa caps, Zippy Paws and other Christmas pet toys, wet dog food, Inaba tuna fillets for pets, Inaba chicken fillets for pets, chicken jerky treats, bully slice, cows ears and kabob chew sticks were shared.

I made appointments for my two dogs to get their nails and anal glands done. The dogs are small so I was able to put both in one doggie car seat. Each of them has gotten car sick in the past but the seat usually helps. Because they get car sick, we have never really brought them anywhere, unless it is for a vet appointment so neither likes it when they are loaded into my vehicle. Both of them did ok while receiving services but one of them got sick on the way back to the house. Needless to say, I was a little behind getting on the road this morning...As soon as I got the dogs squared away at home, I left. I got on the freeway and drove to the Eastside. I got off on Blaine and went straight to see a puppy named 'Lizzy'. From there, I drove to Hunter Park, where I visited with three pets. I was hoping to find a couple of pets near Blaine and Iowa so I went back that way, after leaving the park. I did not have any luck and proceeded on to Massachusetts Avenue. One of the pets I often visit is no longer there. His companions got housing in Hemet. Most of the others are still around but did not bring their pets out for a visit. 'Susy' and 'Queen' were the only ones around so I spent time with them. I was sad to hear that one of the dogs will no longer be living in the pallet houses aka/pods. She and her companion have been there for four months and were told their time is up. They can try to return in thirty days but were not sure where they would be going now. It is always harder on those who are indoors for awhile and then put back out then those who just stay out but most do not want to turn down the opportunity. I don't see long term solutions for many of these people but hope to be proven otherwise. Nestle Pure Life waters, wet dog food, Star Milling Company, Inaba tuna fillets for pets, Inaba chicken fillets for pets, chicken jerky treats, bacon flavored dental sticks, bully sticks, cows ears and kabob chew sticks were shared.

I had a pretty busy morning and the wind was blowing way too hard once again. It was not as bad as last week but it was enough to make it uncomfortable to be in. That being said, I wanted to check on a couple of the pets that received 'the works' yesterday, meet a new dog that is scheduled for this coming Wednesday, go to the post office to ship another package and then make it to the MSRPAC Spay/Neuter Clinic. The last stop was to facilitate well checks for four pets and then pay invoices for a total of thirteen pets that were at the clinic for a variety of services Tuesday, Wednesday and today. Once all that was accomplished it was noon so I headed home to edit today's photos, update our social media and do some Grant documentation. It felt like there was no time to relax but I don't mind being busy as long as things get done. A big thank you to Lupe Alcala for transporting 'Scamp', 'Angelica', 'Joey' and their companion to the clinic. Nestle Pure Life waters, cup of noodles, wet dog food, 17 pound bag of cat food from the Star Milling Company, 20 pound bag of dog food from the Star Milling Company, doggie waste bags with leash clip, Inaba tuna fillets for pets, Inaba chicken fillets for pets, chicken jerky treats, leashes, pet pajamas, pet jacket, bully slices, cows ears, kabob chew sticks and pet toys were shared.

The month of November was fairly slow for us but we still provided 'the works' for 14 pets. Eight of those pets were dogs. There were two males and six females. Six of those pets were cats. There was one male and five females…..Today was our first Spay/Neuter Day for the month of December. Two female dogs, one female cat and two male cats received 'the works' today. In addition, three dogs that have already had their surgeries in the past were there to get vaccinations updated as well as flea/tick treated. That meant that seven of the eight pets we had scheduled made it for their appointments. The one dog that did not make it for surgery is now re-scheduled for next week. His companions texted more than an hour after they were supposed to arrive and that was to let me know they overslept. I always do my best to give someone a second chance so I am hoping next Wednesday goes as planned. "One by one we get them done, because the only way to combat pet overpopulation and euthanasia in our shelters is to spay and neuter".

Five Of The Reasons We Need Your Donations~Every day is a 'giving' day for Taking It To The Streets with Lori and Shira but we cannot give that which we do not have. Thank You to those who are Donating/Sharing the #GivingTuesday Fundraiser.