I grew up in rural Ohio in a family of animal lovers.   My brothers and I would take care of all stray creatures, great and small, that would find their way to our yard.  Many fur and feathered creatures have come and gone, all taking my heart with them and leaving a void that sends me on to help another helpless friend.    After retiring, spouse Don and I joined many others in working in a rescue group.  Other charities have been rewarding, but nothing has compared to helping a matted, sad, helpless shelter guy find a wonderful home.  I encourage all to help the animals by donating old towels, newspapers, dollars, or most of all by providing a good home.   Ghandi put it best, I think, "The greatness of a nation can be judged by the way its animals are treated."