For those who've always wanted to help out the Humboldt SPCA but may not have known how, here's your chance.
The shelter's annual Foster for the Holidays is back, and pet lovers and those with a big heart can foster a dog or puppy from the shelter for Christmas, from Dec. 21 until Jan. 4.
It's the perfect opportunity for people who may not have time to actually own a pet, but will be home for the holidays.
"The goal is to have all the dogs and puppies fostered out," said Wanda Price, manager of the shelter.
For those not able to foster a dog, cats and kittens at the shelter are also looking for a temporary home to call their own over the Christmas break.
"Some of these animals have never been inside a house and would love to know what it feels like to be in a warm home," Price said.
"It's also a good opportunity to get our puppies somewhat house-broken and trained to go for walks outside," she added.
"Plus, they'll love the extra attention."
Those who already have pets and would like to figure out how they'll respond to a temporary extra animal in the house, Price has you covered; you can simply bring your pet to the SPCA to interact with the foster animal before your decision is made.
Currently, there are still a couple of adult dogs and small puppies, including German Shepherd mixes and border collie crosses, that need to be fostered; there are plenty of cats and adorable kittens as well.
"It'd be great if someone could foster one of our cats who's in a cage. They don't get much room and would love to have a house to roam around in for two weeks," Price added.
The SPCA will provide all the supplies for fostering, from food to toys to blankets and kitty litter.
Those interested can swing by the SPCA in person at Highway 5 East in Humboldt, just over the train tracks. Price said it's mandatory she meet every foster parent in person before they fill out a form. As well, those looking to foster must be committed to keeping the animal until Jan. 4.
During this two week period, the SPCA will essentially be closed, not taking in any animals, as they're currently over capacity as is. However, Price said in case of an absolute emergency, that phone line will remain open.
And for some, they may not be able to foster during the Christmas break but would still like to help out, so here's what the SPCA is in need of:
-Rawhide bones (big and small), pig's ears and other chewy toys
-President's Choice kitten food
-President's Choice dog food
-Bleach and laundry detergent (High Efficiency)
-Large and extra-large heavy-duty garbage bags
-Clumping cat litter
Additional donations are of course welcome as well.
For more information on donations or fostering, drop by the SPCA or contact Price at 306-682-5550.
