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by Suzyn Barron, President of Warwick Valley Humane Society, Inc.
Did you know this coming weekend is our organization’s annual end of year fundraiser? It’s Pet Photos with Santa at the animal shelter on Saturday, November 23rd and Sunday, November 24th from 1 to 4pm both days, rain, snow or shine! For only $25 (cash preferred), our professional photographer will snap two amazing photos with our dressed to the hilt Santa against a new background as a family keepsake of your pet or pets. Some families choose family photos while others just want that picture of their pet with Santa.
And, of course, we offer head and neck decorations for use if the pet owner so desires. Many come already dressed up in their finest costumes for the holiday season. The children often whisper their wish list into Santa’s ear while some pets are either reticent to be near Santa or overly excited.
We make every effort to offer a stress-free session for both humans and their pets and never rush to get the perfect pictures. We do ask that no personal photos be taken since the photographer donates her time and talent to the shelter allowing all proceeds to benefit our homeless pets this holiday season. Every pet that “endures” its picture being taken receives a free treat and we have candy canes for the kids.
People enjoy making Holiday photos celebrating family bonds which emphasize the pet’s role in the home. Pets naturally bring smiles and joy so their presence in the photo adds a heartwarming, playful spirit. Dressing pets in holiday outfits showcases their unique personalities and is fun to do but only if the pet enjoys it too. Creating memories and sharing holiday photos on social media spreads cheer to friends and other family members. Over the years we have noticed that for many families taking Pet Photos with Santa has become an annual tradition of making memories year after year. We have been privileged to watch children grow into adults and pets mature to graying muzzles. Being able to visit with dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs and other species of pets that had been adopted in years prior are highlights for our staff and directors. It’s such a joy to witness the bond of love and commitment and mutual adoration created through adoption.
We truly enjoy seeing people pamper their pets at this fundraiser which shows that they are well loved family members. We care for the unclaimed strays and unwanted surrendered animals which break our hearts throughout the year, so to witness this inclusion at our event warms our hearts and gives us renewed hope for the animals waiting to be adopted.
There is no pre-registration for Pet Photos with Santa, all pets are welcome but must be restrained in some manner with dogs on leashes and cats in carriers for their safety and everyone’s peace of mind. Ho, Ho, Ho!
Pet of the Week:
Adoption applications are available at wvhumane.org or call 845-986-2473.
