In ancient Egyptian times, cats were revered as kings. And man has always loved dogs, giving them a place of honor since long before Lassie saved Timmy again and again from the abyss of the well. These days, however, many dogs and cats are stuck in a rut, facing loneliness during the holidays. You can help. Drop by the Santa Maria Valley Humane Society’s open house, set for Dec. 4 from 4 to 8 p.m.
People who think they’ll be too busy to attend should think again. The busiest man in the world has scheduled an appearance: Santa. In addition to seeing the jolly man, guests will find games to be played, treats to be had, and kitties and dogs to be petted.
“We’re hoping that this event will let people of the community know that they don’t have to buy animals—that are usually not spayed or neutered—that they can adopt here at the shelter,” said Jill Tucker, executive director at the Humane Society. “Wonderful animals.”
The event, in addition to alerting the community of the animals’ dire need to be loved, will also let the people of Santa Maria Valley know that if they can’t adopt, they can contribute to the Santa Maria Valley Humane Society wish list or their foodbank, the latter of which will benefit families whose pets are being impacted by family financial hardships.
The Humane Society is beginning to feel that money pinch as well, and anyone who can donate items like pet food, collars, leashes, and paper towels—they will be the heroes of the animals.
The event will be free and open to the public. For a list of recommended items, visit the shelter’s website at smvhs.org, or call 349-3435.
Intern Henry Houston compiled this week’s Community Corner. Send comments or ideas to the Sun via e-mail at intern@santamariasun.com.
This article appears in Nov 26 – Dec 3, 2009.
