SILVER SPRING, Md. - We all know the recession is taking a toll on some people but it also is affecting their pets, even after they pass away.

Two years ago, the Montgomery County (web | news) Humane Society was gifted the 8-acre Aspin Hill Pet Cemetery tucked quietly behind Aspen Hill Road near Georgia Avenue. The spot is where hundreds of pets--dogs, cats, horses, rabbits and so on -- and a few pet owners are buried, but the recession has taken its toll on the premises.

"We don't have the money to really invest in this. We want to, but it's a tough time," said Jo Ann Hoffman with the Montgomery County Humane Society.

Caretaker James Thompson, 77, wades through waist-high grass in spots, and for more than 40 years he's mowed, trimmed and buried. It's tough, he says, keeping the place up. "You can't just shove a regular mower over a marker because it might be a little too high," Thompson said.

But this isn't just a final resting place for beloved family pets. A few celebrities, such as General Grant - also known as Jiggs and Petey, the dog in the little Rascals series - and J. Edgar Hoover's dog are also buried at the location.

The site also holds a memorial to rats used for medical experiments and one for PETA. But the area, along with an historic house on the grounds, is falling into disrepair without the money and help needed to restore it.

As a result, the Humane Society is hoping some will show up to volunteer their services, so Buffy, Snoopy, Bozo and Snorky can rest in peace, and that call for help is getting out. Justin Collins showed up to offer his services. "Pets are very important to most of us who are dog and cat owners. It's an important thing--these are our kids," Collins said.

Those who wish to help with financial donations, volunteer time and material donations in order to rehab and maintain the Aspin Hill Memorial Park Pet Cemetery should contact:

Stephanie Myers
Montgomery County Humane Society
240-773-5973

 

 Email To Friend