Editor's Note

Editor’s Note

By Elisa Kronish

Every letter I receive in the mail that portrays the longing eyes of a dog, a cat, a seal, whatever the animal organization may represent, compels me to contribute somehow and stirs my desire to save every animal who needs help everywhere. But I know that’s not possible. Instead, I concentrate on what I can do. I volunteer at a local shelter, and I make sure the animals in my life know they’re loved.

In all, there are seven cats, five of whom have lived out their nine lives (Charlie, Charcoal, Roxy, Gulliver, and Delaney), and two— Bonnie and Clyde—who currently live with my parents in the northern Chicago suburbs. Central shares their space, although not always in complete harmony, considering Central’s innate penchant for hunting. She’s an energetic Jack Russell who followed my brother-in-law home one day while he was jogging along Central Avenue in Indianapolis. He and my sister took her in and, after searching unsuccessfully for her original guardians, brought her to live with my parents. Central follows in the paw-steps of Pepper, a sweet Golden Retriever/Irish Setter mix who lived with us when I was growing up.

Besides Central, there are also my in-laws’ dogs, Bobby and Shannon, beautiful and generous Border Collies. Whenever I have the chance to visit any of the animals, I dote on them. I don’t mind when they cover my black pants with gray and white fur, or lick my face, or pee out of pure excitement.

You see, I’m an animal lover who can’t have pets right now…so I cherish every moment I can get with them, but I always want more. When I was presented with the opportunity to join Tails, Inc., as Managing Editor, it seemed the perfect way to fill my animal deficit. In fact, it fulfills two goals: to work for a publication that makes a difference, and to help animals. I am so thankful to have found a way to be connected to animals, and to further Janice Brown’s passion for rescue and adoption.

As you read this issue, Janice’s commitment and that of my predecessor, Jennifer Martin, is evident in each article. I hope you are encouraged and inspired to adopt a pet, volunteer with a shelter or rescue organization, or donate your extra dollars to a cause you believe in. None of us can save all the animals everywhere, but together we can affect positive changes and, maybe one day, there won’t be a need for so many mailers filled with pleas for help from so many important organizations around the world.

I’m excited to be here, and I promise to continue providing valuable information for you and your pets. Please let me know if there’s anything you’d like us to do better; keep me posted on events and news; send me ideas for articles; and help us get the word out about the important role that shelters play in the world.

I look forward to learning about your pets, facilitating ways for you to channel your love for animals to help shelter and rescue organizations, and doing what I can to contribute to the health and wellbeing of animals.

Thanks for welcoming me!

Elisa Kronish