Cats and dogs are getting some ‘Howliday Magic’ on Christmas Eve at a local animal shelter
Published: 3:35 PM CST, December 24, 2024
Updated: 9:45 PM CST, December 24, 2024
MURPHYSBORO, Ill. (KBSI) – Community members brought some ‘Howliday Magic’ to cats and dogs on Christmas Eve at a southern Illinois animal shelter.
St. Francis Community Animal Rescue & Education held its annual Christmas Eve Howliday Magic event which showcases the adult dogs and cats in shelter that are often passed over for adoption.
St. Francis CARE board director Diane Daugherty said it’s a great way for the community to help socialize the animals.
“The puppies get a lot of attention, but we have a lot of older dogs that don’t get attention, so this is all centered around them and our cats,” she said.
Cookies, hot beverages, and a warm fire were provided and some people brought in donations for the animals.
Inside the cat house people got to play with the mix of cats that mingle together instead of being in individual cages. People also got a chance to go inside the kennels and play with the dogs.
Assistant Director Jessica Piquard said some of the dogs have been there a long time.
“They kind of get overlooked because they are a little bit bigger,” she said. “They just need a chance. We have some that are a little shy, some that take a little longer to warm up, but they’re amazing dogs and they would be amazing additions to any home.”
Attendee Trisha Grohowski heard about the event through social media. She liked the idea of visiting animals that’ll be alone on Christmas even if the animals don’t actually know Christmas is different from any other day of the year.
She said she enjoys the chance to contribute at the event and getting to be with other members of the community.
“So I figured we’d come out tonight,” Grohowski said. “We actually have an appointment to see a few of the dogs on Thursday. We have two cats, and we’re looking to maybe add a dog to the family.”
To learn more about the animals up for adoption at St. Francis CARE, click here.
