Everyone loves puppies and kittens. And some of those wanting to show their love attended the recent Humane Society Calumet Area (HSCA) Open House and Animal Baby Shower and brought gaily wrapped gifts and monetary donations.
“We’ve been doing this for about nine years, and always have a lot of visitors,” said HSCA volunteer Bobbi Spire, as she organized the gift table near the front door. “It has continued in popularity because of the community’s support — and everyone loves the animals.”
More than 50 people attended the event meant to bring awareness of the shelter’s mission and “shower” the animals with necessities — and a few toys too.
A gift wish-list, highlighting items such as kitten and puppy formula, puppy nursing bottles, heating pads and shelter supplies, was offered on the HSCA website.
The impetus for the party was developed by the HSCA’s past community outreach coordinator and current HSCA volunteer Elaine Howery.
“In the past, we’ve had a more traditional baby shower, with games in our back room,” Howery said, as she prepared kitten formula to put in a nursing bottle. “But we’ve outgrown that room, with many more visitors stopping in and a lot more presents.”
Because the shelter takes in the most puppies and kittens in spring, the baby animal shower was schedule for April.
Robyn DeJon of Munster celebrated her 11th birthday a few months ago, but instead of receiving presents from family and friends, she asked that gifts reflect items from the HSCA animal shower wish-list.
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“I already have so much, but these animals don’t have a lot,” she said. “My mom and I brought over two loads of things already.”
Shelter employee Dena Stipes said she sees many young people like Robyn.
“About every two weeks, we see these youngsters bringing in donations of supplies, rather than receive birthday gifts for themselves,” Stipes said. “Their parents have instilled in them a very giving nature.”
Some of the presents, such as expensive milk replacement powder and toys are given to the families and individuals who foster animals from the shelter. Cleaning supplies are used at the shelter.
During the event, informal tours are offered.
“I adopted two animals from here, and I know how important it is to keep this place going,” said Jeanine Collier from Hammond. “A lot of people — myself included — donate all year long. It’s really needed.”
The Humane Society Calumet Area offers other events to the public each year. For more information, call (219) 513-8911, or visit online at http://www.hscalumet.org.
Sue Ellen Ross is a freelance reporter.