The Friends of Cumberland County Animal Shelter is organizing a Christmas meal for the shelter animals on Thursday, Dec. 20, starting at 11:30 a.m. Approximately 100 dogs and 50 cats will enjoy this animal-friendly meal. The animals will also receive stockings filled with treats and toys.
Anyone who would like to donate food, toys or treats for the Christmas celebration can drop items off at the shelter at 4704 Corporation Dr., Fayetteville, weekdays from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday from 1 to 5 p.m.
Suggested items include: durable rubber dog toys, rope toys, cat toys, canned chicken, turkey, tuna and sardines, canned pumpkin (plain), green beans, sweet potatoes (plain), baby carrots, bananas and apples.
Additionally, FOCCAS is collecting cold-weather dog houses, straw, blankets and food for outdoor dogs to be comfortable and safe over the winter months.
“Ideally, dogs should be brought indoors during cold weather, but we understand there are some pets that will remain outside. For these cases, we want to ensure pet owners have adequate shelter for their pet,” said Shelly Bryant, FOCCAS president.
Owners and animals will be nominated by Animal Control Staff to receive the dog houses. However, members of the public can also contact the Shelter or FOCCAS to inquire about receiving a dog house. Residents who would like to donate cold-weather supplies may drop off items at the shelter or make monetary gifts through the FOCCAS Facebook page at facebook.com/CCACanimalfriends.
FOCCAS is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that works in conjunction with the Cumberland County Animal Shelter to promote animal welfare initiatives and responsible pet ownership through education, community outreach, and animal enrichment programs.
To assist the group with events and other outreach programs, you should first become a volunteer with the Animal Shelter by attending volunteer orientation the third Saturday of each month at 10 a.m. Contact the shelter at 910-321-6852 for more information.