Community shines trying to help dog Jingles

Thanks to all who helped Jingles

I would like to thank the people of the Tampa Bay area for once again coming to the rescue of an animal in need. Jingles, the little dog injured in the Dunedin explosion, was given every possible chance to survive this ordeal thanks to a caring and generous community that helped provide the best medical care available.

Although we all wanted the story to end with Jingles walking out of the animal hospital, an unexpected blood clot ended those hopes. However, because Jingles' story helped raise funds to supply all Pinellas County emergency vehicles with animal oxygen masks, his legacy will live on through other animals that are saved via the oxygen masks. Pasco County also has asked for masks as soon as possible.

I would also like to thank the firefighters for their rescue of Jingles, Dr. Elizabeth Baird of Country Oaks Animal Hospital for her emergency care at the scene, Animal Hospital of Dunedin for its emergency care immediately after the incident, and Florida Veterinary Specialists for their 24/7 specialized care.

From all of us at the Suncoast Animal League, we thank you for reaching out to a little dog that you had never met, making sure that he wanted for nothing and for seeing that other animals will have a better chance of survival when faced with a similar disaster.

Rick Chaboudy, executive director, Suncoast Animal League

Rep. Young needs to put people first

I believe our local congressman, C.W. Bill Young, needs to send out surveys or questionnaires to his constituents to see what their priorities are. Maybe Pinellas County won't get its fair share of the financial aid coming from Washington because Congressman Young continually votes "no" on all the aid packages. Maybe he's afraid of the peer pressure from the GOP.

He needs to vote the needs of the people, not the party. He needs to listen to the people who need help, not the GOP.

Justin Husak, Palm Harbor

Parking permit got too expensive

I just received a reminder to renew my Clearwater resident parking permit and was shocked to learn that the price has increased $35, to $75 from $40.

I understand that some cuts need to be made, and I could afford to pay $50, but $75 is ridiculous. I can no longer afford to purchase the permit. I will miss not having it, as I am a senior and it was very convenient for me.

Marilyn Rebert, Clearwater