Due to the outstanding care provided to all pets who pass through the door of the animal shelter, 61 cats are climbing up their own Christmas trees, 16 dogs are hanging their stockings next to those of their new owners, 17 guinea pigs are making their beds in the hay, and two rabbits and one mouse will be dining on greens in their own homes.

Satisfied smiles are sported by the staff and workers at the shelter as we celebrate a job well done. As happy as we are for the animals the shelter placed, we are equally pleased with, and thankful for, the people who made room in their hearts and homes for these creatures. May all your Christmases be merry and bright.

The puggle named Cali who was in and out of the shelter in what seemed minutes is now responding to the name Cricket. She has embarked on an intensive training course with her new owner who said she was not allowed on the furniture, right after he described how she slept in his bed with him. We can tell it is a good match.

Once again the shelter is nearly empty. A very large orange male, a stray found in Morgan Woods, is the only occupant of our intake room. We call him Big Ben for obvious reasons. All five of the kittens we had last week have been adopted.

Princess, the old lady cat, is still with us, but is free to a tenderhearted person who will give her a home. We are hoping that three times is the charm for the tabby named Betsy. She has been adopted twice before, but returned to us each time. Harrison Ford, the large black guinea pig, was just this minute transported to the car of his new owner. He left with a large bag of produce to munch on while he acclimates to his new surroundings.

The Christmas Parade was a huge success. The Christmas spirit was evident in both humans and canines. In effect, it prevails all year long at the animal shelter. The animals under our care are not only given the essentials like food and water, but lavish amounts of love. The cat whisperers, Mary, Stephanie, Merri and Missy can usually be found with a lapful of purring fluff.

Maureen, Leila, Sara, Linda, Deanna and Cynthia are general duty helpers for whatever needs doing. We thank them all for their care and attention to all our residents.