Kadena Officers' Spouses' Club donates food to base kennel Published Dec. 23, 2008 By Tech. Sgt. Rey Ramon 18th Wing Public Affairs KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- Sharing the holiday spirit with some of the base's four-legged residents, the Kadena Officers' Spouses' Club donated more than 80 bags and containers of pet food and various other items to Karing Kennels Dec. 11. "We are extremely grateful for their donation," said Audrey Armstrong, Karing Kennels operations clerk. Every year, KOSC brightens the holidays for the pets by donating pet food, litter, treats and toys to the kennel. In recognition for their donations, Karing Kennels placed a dog bone on their platinum board with "KOSC" engraved on it. "We owe them our extreme gratitude for their donations," said Ms Armstrong, "and a sincere thanks for their love and support." Karing Kennels takes in more than 150 turned in or abandoned pets every year. The majority of the animals collected by Karing Kennels are abandoned by their owners during permanent change of station moves. The kennel shelters, feeds and cares for the animals until homes can be found for them. For the KOSC, the donation of pet supplies is simply part of their tradition of service to the Kadena community. "The donation of pet supplies has become an annual holiday ritual for us," said club president, Jacklene Hutcheson. "It's important to bring some attention to these animals that are looking for good homes and loving families to take them in." The KOSC advisor, Marianne Williams, expressed her appreciation for the efforts of Karing Kennels and the KOSC to address the issue of stray animals at Kadena. "Karing Kennels works so hard throughout the year to find forever homes for these pets who are abandoned or surrendered by their owners," said Mrs. Williams. "These donated items help Karing Kennels as well as the new adoptive families. I'm so very proud and grateful for KOSC's generosity." If you are interested in adopting a pet, please visit Karing Kennels or call 632-4970.