Cat call:

October is coming to a close, but The Animal Shelter Society Inc. is still offering a special price on cat adoptions for the remainder of the month. For the same price as the number of day in October, 31, visitors of the shelter can walk away with a new family member. The shelter has seen an influx of cats since the beginning of summer, and it hasn’t slowed down for fall. Executive Director Jody Murray said the shelter is stretched to its limits with more animals than usual. “We are the only shelter in the county and for a lot of the surrounding counties that take cats in, so unfortunately we are staying full,” said Murray.

Fundraisers past and future:

• Downtown Tattoo partnered with the Animal Shelter Society Inc. for a one-day fundraiser in which 100 percent of every penny raised was donated to the shelter for a grand total of nearly $7,000.
• Coming up at the end of the month, the Animal Shelter Society Inc. will host its biggest fundraiser of the year, the annual Paws and Claws Fall Benefit at the Zane State College Campus Center. Tickets for the event are $25, but not many are left, Murray said. A variety of sports collectibles will be auctioned off during the dinner, including some Ohio State University autographed memorabilia and autographs from coach Mark Dantoni of Michigan State and football legend Johnny Unitas. Dinner begins at 6 p.m. on Oct. 27 and the live auction follows at 7 p.m. Items are still being accepted for the auction through next Thursday.

Call for donations:

In addition to monetary gifts, the shelter is always in need of donations for the care of the animals. Now especially, Murray is asking for laundry detergent since he said the shelter’s four washing machines are running eight hours per day, everyday. Murray said other items in need are leashes, collars and toys (of the KONG variety).

Adoption Event: This Saturday, Oct. 20 is the shelter’s weekly adoption event. Anyone looking to adopt a pet can meet their future furry friend at PetSmart from 12-3 p.m.

Christmas on the mind:

The Animal Shelter Society Inc. wants shoppers to keep them in mind this Christmas season. Anyone who donates $100, in their name or another’s, will be recognized with a plaque placed in the shelter’s lobby.

Foster a friend:

Lastly, the shelter is in need of fosters to care for pets, whether they have medical needs or are transitioning out of the shelter. Anyone interested can contact the shelter to volunteer.