Pet of the Week

ZANESVILLE, Ohio — The Animal Shelter Society and a local insurance agency are partnering for a pet donation drive.

Shelter Director Jody Murray and State Farm agent Matthew Riddle introduced us to our Pet of the Week today; a three year-old American-Staffy mix named Ezra. While most of the adopted animals only stay at the shelter for one or two months, Ezra has been at the shelter since August. Murray and his staff are working hard to find him a happy home.

“We’re all about adoption, spaying and neutering. We have a wellness clinic where folks can bring their pets out for vaccinations and things like that. So we’re featuring this guy this week as our pet of the week, this is Ezra. Other than having some vision problems, he’s just a wonderful dog. He gets along with people, gets along with other animals,” said Murray.

Matthew Riddle, who is a new insurance agent in the area, said that he and his entire staff love pets, and after volunteering at the shelter in the past, he knew that he wanted to get involved and help out.

“As a State Farm agent, in my office specifically, it’s really a point for us to be in touch with the community, to give back,” said Riddle.

While community members have been coming in to donate food, toys, and other pet supplies, Riddle encouraged others to participate in the coming week.

“3612 Maple Ave., it’s right across from Chipotle and the mall. We’re here 9-5, Saturday we’re open 9-Noon, so anyone can come in and drop off food and that’d be great,” Riddle added.

North Valley Bank is also providing it’s support to Ezra by offering to sponsor Ezra’s complete adoption for any family interested. Donations for the drive will be accepted through next Friday, March 3rd.