'Home for the Holidays' fosters pet adoptions

Looking for a special holiday gift that can bring joy for years to come?

Seek no further than the New Nodaway Humane Society.

Throughout the month of December, the shelter is offering half-price adoptions on the 200-plus cats and dogs waiting for owners who will give them a "forever home."

The shelter is also holding a fundraiser during the holiday season, giving anyone a chance to "light up an animal's life."

For $10, donors can add a string of lights to the shelter's holiday decorations and help offset the cost of running the facility.

The lights are currently being hung around the facility, located on South Depot Street in Maryville.

"Right now it is working really well," society volunteer Diane Houston said. "All of the donations go for the support of the animals. With the number of animals we have, the cost is significantly high."

Two "Home for the Holidays" events are being held to encourage adoptions, which are discounted through December to $40 for dogs and $35 for cats. The price includes vaccinations, worming, a microchip and sterilization.

Both events will take place at Orscheln Farm & Home in Maryville from 10 a.m. until noon on Saturday, Dec. 8, and Saturday, Dec. 15.

"We all know that visibility of the animals is important," Houston said. "Usually more adoptions happen when people see the animals."

Santa Claus will be at Orscheln's both days to visit with children and help the animals find new homes.

"It is a great event for the family," Houston said. "They can come see Santa and pick out their 'forever friend.'"

Volunteers are needed to help with both events. Anyone interested should call the shelter at (660) 562-3333.

Those unable to take a pet home can still help with the $10 donation. To make a contribution, visit the shelter, mail a check or donate online.

The shelter's address is 829 S. Depot St., Maryville, MO, 64468. Access the society's website at www.nodawayhumanesociety.org.