KAREN: Hi, I'm Karen Carpenter.

RICHARD: And I'm Richard Carpenter.

KAREN: Pets and children, children and pets -- a combination that means love wherever you see it.

RICHARD: But pets, like children, need special attention.

KAREN: And, unlike children, they can't always tell you what they need.

RICHARD: That's why the Humane Society of the United States give a special thought for kids who like animals. It's called KIND and it stands for "Kindness in Nature's Defense."

KAREN: Children are inquisitive. And learning about pets and wildlife in an early age will be a blessing to both the beasts and children.

RICHARD: If you have children who have pets, ...

KAREN: ... or if you want your children to learn more about pets and animals and nature, write to Humane Society of the United States, Washington, D.C. 20037. Thank you.

[Song]
Bless the beasts and the children
For in this world they have no voice
They have no choice

KAREN: Hi, this is Karen Carpenter. There's an explosion in the United States -- a pet population explosion. Millions of unwanted and unloved pups and kittens are born and only one out of ten finds a home. The rest are destroyed. The Humane Society of the United States wants *you* to know spaying and neutering can help reduce this problem. Talk to your veterinarian or write to Humane Society of the United States, Washington, D.C. 20037.

RICHARD: Hi. I'm Richard.
KAREN: And I'm Karen Carpenter. A playful little kitten or puppy may seem like the perfect gift but think twice.

RICHARD: If the person who receives your surprise does not want it or take care of it, it is a disaster for the pet.

KAREN: Every year animal shelters take in thousands of dogs and cats who are received as gifts but turn out to be too much trouble or too expensive to keep. Most of them are destroyed.

RICHARD: Pets take plans. Don't give a pet as a surprise.

KAREN: This message from the Humane Society of the United States.

KAREN: Be a responsible pet owner. A leash and license are good for your pet. This tip from the Humane Society of the United States and me, Karen Carpenter.

END