Bringing "Howliday Magic" to Shelter Pets in Murphysboro, Illinois
MURPHYSBORO, Ill. – As the Christmas season approaches, St. Francis CARE in Murphysboro is inviting community members to spread some festive cheer to the pets spending the holidays in their shelter. This year, the event dubbed “Howliday Magic” aims to gather both support and goodwill for our furry friends, highlighting the joy of giving during this special time of year.
Event Details
The Howliday Magic event takes place on Christmas Eve from 6 to 8 p.m., allowing attendees to drop by and donate needed items. It’s an opportunity for everyone to come together, not only to support the shelter’s mission but also to share the holiday spirit. A cozy fire will provide warmth, while hot chocolate, spiced tea, and cookies will be served to create a truly festive atmosphere.
Organizers invite visitors to bring their own lawn chairs, making it a true outdoor gathering filled with camaraderie and compassion.
Items to Donate
For those looking to contribute, St. Francis CARE is encouraging donations of specific items that can help enhance the shelter environment for both cats and dogs. The items that are particularly appreciated include:
- Large breed dog toys
- Cat toys
- Dog and cat treats
- Chews
- Kuranda dog beds
- Blankets
- Dog and cat food
Each donation, big or small, can make a significant difference in the lives of these animals during the holiday season.
Honoring the Big Dogs
Diane Daugherty, the president and founder of St. Francis CARE, emphasizes that this event is particularly special for the shelter’s larger canine residents. "We do this in honor of our big dogs and people have made it a family tradition," Daugherty shares. The event has grown over the years, drawing in crowds of over a hundred people annually. Participants are encouraged to engage with the dogs, giving them treats and spending quality time in their kennels. “It’s their time to shine, and it’s just a wonderful event,” she added.
The Reality of Shelters
Daugherty raised a critical issue regarding the shelter’s status, noting that a full shelter is the norm at St. Francis CARE. “We’re always full. Our adoptions have been steadily ticking up, which is a blessing, but it’s crazy,” she explained. The shelter is actively part of the Purina Program, which helps supply food for the animals, but still relies on the community for other essentials. Donations of treats, cash, and cleaning supplies like bleach are always welcome.
A Lesson for Kids
Daugherty also sees the Howliday Magic event as an educational opportunity for children. Bringing kids to the event is not just about the fun; it instills a sense of responsibility towards pet ownership. “It’s a good time to teach your kids about the joy of giving back,” she noted. The holidays can be a perfect moment to foster empathy and understanding for the needs of animals.
Adoption Considerations
While many may be inspired to adopt a pet during the holidays, Daugherty cautions against making impulsive decisions. “We do not adopt, and most reputable shelters will never adopt as a gift. A live animal is never a good surprise gift.” She stressed that if a family is ready to adopt, they should approach it thoughtfully, acknowledging the long-term commitment involved. The adoption fee covers essential services such as spaying or neutering and vaccinations, helping ensure that every pet is ready for their new home.
For $100, potential adopters can welcome a new furry family member, including delightful options like Bambi, an eight-week-old kitten who is experiencing her first Christmas in the shelter.
Caring for Pets in Winter
As the winter season unfolds, Daugherty highlights the importance of keeping pets safe and comfortable. She notes that even as the holidays may warm hearts, the cold can be challenging for pets. “We complain when the electricity goes out or we don’t have air conditioning or heat,” she reflected. “They’re just like us. They’ve gotten soft, so we have to protect them.”
Location and Participation
For those wishing to participate in Howliday Magic and contribute to the mission of St. Francis CARE, the shelter is located at 6228 Country Club Rd. in Murphysboro. The event promises to be a heartwarming evening filled with community spirit, joy, and, importantly, love for animals.
By coming together to support the shelter on Christmas Eve, individuals can make a significant impact in providing a little extra holiday magic for the pets awaiting their forever homes.
