Santa Paws Donation Drive Brings Warmth to The Animal Shelter Society

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – The Animal Shelter Society is asking for donations to keep their animals healthy this winter. One group went a step above the rest and made blankets for the cats.

“We always have plenty enough (blankets) for the dogs but not so much for the cats,” Shelter Executive Director April Gibson said. “They’re the perfect size for the kennels we have.”

Seniors at the North Terrace Church of Christ got together and made small blankets, and Gibson said the cats love to get cozy.

“They’re just like children or adults, we like to snuggle up and feel comfortable, the cats do the same thing,” Gibson said.

The shelter is also accepting donations for its annual Santa Paws Shelter Supply Drive.

Gibson said the most needed supplies are scentless, splashable bleach along with laundry detergent.

She said the shelter does over 30 loads of laundry a day, and the detergent supply has dropped down to about five bottles.

The shelter is also in need of Purina pet food. Gibson said to avoid purchasing red meats, chicken and tuna flavored food.

Donations can be dropped off during regular business hours. Gibson said people can come in and visit the animals after 12:30 p.m. after a donation.

“It’s kind of a win-win. We get the supplies we need, and you get to see the over 100 animals we have in our care,” Gibson said.

The shelter closes for the holidays on Christmas Eve and won’t open to visitors until Jan. 2.

During the closing period, staff will be in to check in on the animals.

Written by WHIZ Intern Alison Patton.