Dear Annie: I am writing to you so you can educate people on what happens to cats when they are dropped off at a farm. I live on one, so I see firsthand what goes on.

— Your cats are scared out of their minds. So they hide or get run over by a car because they don’t know the lay of the land.

— The other cats, who are feral (sometimes), are territorial about their space and food. So the sweet cat that you dropped there will not eat.

— Your cat will get beaten up by these cats (or by dogs or will be eaten by a coyote).

Do your pet a favor and take it to a shelter, so at least it has half a chance to live and have a good home. You should NEVER drop it off at “the farm.” It won’t make it! — Sad Farmer

Dear Sad Farmer: I’m printing your letter to make people aware of what really happens when you dump cats. The best solution is to contact a local rescue group or take your cat to the animal shelter. Thank you for sharing.

Dear Annie: I just wanted to let you know that I read your column for the first time today and think you gave excellent advice. You are much better than some of the other advice columns that lack empathy or understanding. Good job, and keep it up. People need to get advice from those who help them be better people and not validate their worst impulses. — A New Fan

Dear Fan: Thank you so much. You have made my day!

Dear Annie: I was struck by the letter from “Too Old to be Abandoned,” who still harbors hurt feelings toward his ailing father. I would like to suggest that he search for the relationship he craves by joining a church or synagogue or an organization to do volunteer work that appeals to him.

I have found wonderful mentors and friendships through these types of situations. Noting his age, I also suggest reaching out to an older person who might enjoy the company of a younger one. For most of my life, I was the “younger” one, but now I’ve reached out to a young friend to ask her to be the “young person” in my life.

Look for the people who will appreciate you, lend a helping hand when you can, and sit down for coffee or a drink after your chores together are done. Please let him know he has a friend in me even though he does not know me. — Friend

Dear Friend: Those are some wonderful suggestions. And I’m printing your letter so that he knows he is not alone. People do care.

View prior ‘Dear Annie’ columns

“How Can I Forgive My Cheating Partner?” is out now! Annie Lane’s second anthology — featuring favorite columns on marriage, infidelity, communication and reconciliation — is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit Creators Publishing for more information. Send your questions for Annie Lane to [email protected].

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