Adopt, help local animals
I volunteer at the Valley River Humane Society animal shelter in Marble. It has been so rewarding. As the year comes to a close, we would like to reflect on the many volunteer experiences we have had as a team. Helping with outdoor chores, laundry, general maintenance, cleaning, painting, walking dogs, grooming cats, assisting employees and donating items needed for the shelter.
New Digs for Dogs, the rescue group, does fostering in our homes with limited space. We have helped 15 dogs this year, where as our local shelter – covering Cherokee, Clay and Graham counties – has helped hundreds of dogs and cats.
What impresses us most is the genuine care, patience, kindness and training the employees give the animals. Under Director Kirsty Waller, the staff seems like a family. We look forward to our visits and helping.
We appreciate the time employees show volunteers what to help with the right way. I always come away learning something new.
We want to thank all our regular volunteers, including Bob Morrell, Bonnie Carter and Jack and JoAnne Weast. Deborah Kenyon recently joined us. Special thanks for helping us with various projects this year are Sunrise Yoga, Kendra Martin, Trish Chapin, Jeanette Kern and Melanie Favilla.
If you would like to volunteer with the humane society, call the new volunteer coordinator Ariane Reeves at 678-951-7150.
For New Digs for Dogs, call 389-6126. With Christmas fast approaching, consider a donation of any size to help shelter animals. Donate to the thrift shop in Murphy or adopt from the shelter. Many beautiful, loving pets are waiting to meet you.
The shelter is in need of bleach, laundry soap, paper towels, trash bags and treats for Christmas. Call Carol at 837-2304 for donation drop-off schedules.
Make adoption your only option. It is good for your soul.
Debbie Graham, Hayesville
The writer is a volunteer with the Valley River Humane Society.