Good Shepherd invites you to adopt a friend in need

EUREKA SPRINGS -- Bad economic times are also hard on animals. As people lose their homes or their jobs they are often forced to give up their beloved pets. As a result, the number of homeless animals swells and animal shelters are unable to meet the increased demand for services.

Good Shepherd Humane Society (GSHS) is feeling the squeeze of the current economic situation. The shelter is full and there is a waiting list for homeless animals in need of a place to go. Many of these animals are sweet, cute, loving, already-trained pets who just need a good home and caring owners.

To relieve the crowding at the Good Shepherd shelter, and to make room for more animals in need, GSHS has reduced adoption fees by half for the month of November and will hold an Adopt-a-Thon and Open House this Saturday. Volunteers will take selected dogs and cats out to meet the public and hopefully their new families. Outside of the shelter atmosphere, the animals' true personalities will be able to shine.

The Adopt-a-Thon will take place Saturday, Nov. 14, from noon to 4 p.m. in the parking lot of Cornerstone Bank on US62E in Eureka Springs. An Open House will be held simultaneously at the animal shelter on US62 between Eureka Springs and Berryville. The public is encouraged to visit both locations, to learn about the local animal shelter and its mission, and to meet the animal caretakers and the new shelter manager. And, if a connection is made, bring home a new family member: a dog, cat, puppy or kitten to add joy to the home. All animals are ready to adopt; they are healthy, have been spayed or neutered and are current on shots. The special adoption fee is $25 for cats and $30 for dogs.

The Adopt-a-Thon is sponsored by Cornerstone Bank, the Lovely County Citizen and Carroll County News. KESA (100.9 FM) will broadcast live from the event starting at noon. In case of rain the events will be rescheduled to Sunday, Nov. 15. Come on out and see the animals, adopt one if you can, and learn how you can help Good Shepherd fulfill its mission of caring for the homeless animals of Carroll County.