My handsome cat, Georgie, posing for his adoption photo
Almost a year ago, I adopted my two cats from the Animal Protection Society of Durham. They were two of 22 cats that had been at the shelter the longest and their adoption fees were completely waived in an effort to make them a more attractive option to potential adopters, and to try to avoid making some tough decisions if the shelter had reached capacity. I had no intention of adopting two cats when I walked into APS, but then I saw this pair of brothers, with their bright, curious yellow eyes and playful personalities, despite having lived in a cage together since November. I knew it would be wrong for anyone to split them up. So, Georgie and Leo came home with me, and they’ve become like family – just with fur (and lots of it!).
Suffice it to say that the APS of Durham has done a lot for me personally. But more important, the non-profit cares for nearly 7,000 animals that are homeless, abandoned, neglected or abused in Durham and the surrounding communities. Their programs and services focus on: educating the public about the humane care, treatment and well-being of all animals; helping to stop pet overpopulation through the promotion of spay/neuter programs; and finding suitable adoptive homes for the animals in their care. To keep these much-needed services in existence, the APS relies heavily on donations from individuals and corporations, and the annual Walk for the Animals is one of the shelter’s largest fundraising events.
At the time of publication, the campaign has raised $25,235.53 of an $80,000 goal. APS needs the help of pet owners, animal lovers and anyone willing to participate to join in the Walk, now in its 12th year, this Saturday. Register online here, or come out the day of the Walk at 9am for breakfast and registration before a compilation of activities including demonstrations, contests, children’s projects, rescue group booths and raffles. The Walk, a one-and-a-half-mile trail around Duke University’s East Campus, begins at 11am. There will also be a chance to register at the Walk for the Animals Pre-Party at Fullsteam Thursday from 5-8pm. Pre-registered walkers can pick up their packets and drop off any donations at the pre-party.
