HUNTSVILLE – If winter’s got you feeling down, here’s good news: Spring might be closer than you think.
At the fourth annual Ground Dog Day celebration at Huntsville Animal Services, Cosmo, a hound mix, predicted an early spring.
His forecast, made with a bit of hesitation, aligned with an earlier prediction by Sand Mountain Sam, but it differed from Punxsutawney Phil’s forecast of continued winter.
Cosmo, a bit shy and uncertain, was gently guided by Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle as he examined two bowls labeled “Early Spring” and “More Winter.”
With encouragement from Battle, District 4 Councilmember Bill Kling and Animal Services staff, Cosmo made his choice, stepping toward the “Early Spring” bowl before enjoying a tasty treat.
Ground Dog Day is more than just a fun event – it’s a chance to raise awareness about adoptable pets, said John Fischer, Director of Huntsville Animal Services. The event also previewed a special Valentine’s Week adoption promotion, offering most adult animals for just a $14 fee the week of Feb. 10-15.
Additionally, the event highlighted the Kisses & Kibble drive-thru pet food pantry, which will be held Feb. 14, from 10 a.m. to noon. The pantry provides one free bag of pet food per household to those in need.
Fischer said Cosmo’s annual prediction draws attention to the shelter’s ongoing efforts, which extend beyond providing safe shelter for lost or abandoned pets. The shelter also offers resources for pet owners, including medical, behavioral and food assistance, to help animals stay in their homes.
“Helping pets stay with their families is a big part of our mission,” Fischer said. “We provide support to keep animals healthy, happy and at home.”
Battle echoed this sentiment, using the event to encourage responsible pet ownership and the importance of spaying and neutering.
“Spaying and neutering is vital for controlling the pet population and improving your pet’s behavior and health,” he said. “Every animal adopted from our shelter is spayed or neutered before going to its new home, and we also offer spay and neuter assistance through local clinics.”
Kling took the opportunity to thank the Animal Services staff for their dedication.
“The work you do to care for our animals is invaluable,” he said.
Each pet adopted from Huntsville Animal Services is spayed or neutered, microchipped, vaccinated and treated with flea and tick prevention. Pets also receive a city license and a free bag of pet food while supplies last.
The shelter is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, visit HuntsvilleAL.gov/Animal, call 256-883-3782, or follow on Facebook.
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