National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week

This week is National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week. The Humane Society of the United States launched this week in 1996 to celebrate and promote animal shelters and increase public awareness of animal welfare issues and shelter services.

The Jefferson County Dog Shelter in New York sponsored an open house adoption event in celebration of National Animal Shelter Appreciation week and had a record breaking adoption day. The shelter has not had an open spot for an animal for six months. Workers at the shelter were surprised at the amazing results from the open house.

“I was so ecstatic. I got up at 7 a.m. this morning and got out there at 7:30 a.m.,” Jefferson County Dog Shelter Supervisor Todd Cummings said. “There was someone waiting here in line, believe it or not, waiting for a dog. By 10 o’clock there was about 35 people waiting in line to get into the building.” 15 dogs were adopted in the first two hours, and many more were adopted throughout the day. Last year, only seven dogs were adopted in total. Cumming said that some dogs have been waiting for homes since May and they finally have found a loving home after their long wait.

Here are some ways that you can show your appreciation for your local animal shelter:
* Adopt or foster an animal.
* Donate a pet bed.
* Volunteer.
* Say thank you or send a thank you note!

[Source: Itchmo.com]