Hinsdale Humane Society Celebrates Adopt-A-Dog Month

Submitted by the Hinsdale Humane Society. Photo: Adoptable dog, Champ, is eagerly waiting to go home.

October is national Adopt-A-Dog month nationwide. At Hinsdale Humane Society (HHS), two upcoming FREE events highlight this ongoing promotion at the shelter, culminating with a raffle drawing at the end of the month.

To kick off Adopt-A-Dog month, HHS hosts a “Puppy Party” on Saturday, October 3 from 1-3pm at the shelter. There is no charge for the party and anyone can attend the festivities. There will be face painting, photo buttons, a “Smooch a Pooch” kissing booth, puppy playtime with adoptable shelter pups, training demonstrations, and refreshments. HHS will accept dog food donations at the party that will be given to an area food pantry to help furry family members in need.

On Tuesday, October 13, HHS is sponsoring a special presentation called DOGS 101 for dog owners and dog lovers. This family-centered, free, community outreach program will be held at the Hinsdale Library from 7:00-8:30 PM. Presenter Kym Iffert, HHS Humane Educator and Obedience Class Instructor, will discuss topics relating to shelter dogs, as well as the resources available to the community at HHS.

Topics to be covered include: choosing the right dog, canine care, and effective communication with your dog. Iffert has an extensive background in animal-related work and is an ABC Certified Dog Trainer/Behavior Consultant, certified AKC-CGC Evaluator/Instructor, and licensed Pet Partners Therapy Animal evaluator and instructor. She and her dog Dino, are a registered Pet Partner team, as well as an Inter-Mountain Therapy Dog READ Program team.

The American Humane Association (AHA) established Adopt-A-Dog month in October, 1981 and was joined by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) to encourage the adoption of animals from dog rescue groups and shelters. Although many embrace the “Adopt, Don’t Shop” philosophy, the message still needs to get out to a wider audience.

“As an animal shelter, HHS has the responsibility to be an advocate for homeless animals and find ways to dispel misinformation about shelter pets,” said Jennifer Vlazny, HHS Operations Manager. “National events, such as Adopt-A-Dog month, provide additional opportunities for us to reach out to the public and showcase all of the wonderful, adoptable puppies and dogs that are at the shelter through no fault of their own.” Each year more than 500 puppies and dogs are adopted from HHS and represent all sizes, breeds and ages.

During Adopt-A-Dog month at HHS, each adopter will receive a goody bag containing dog treats and toys. Everyone who adopts can also enter to win one of three raffle prizes that include a basket of dog-related products, an HHS hooded sweatshirt, and a gift certificate for an exclusive HHS behind-the-scenes shelter tour.

In conjunction with Adopt-A-Dog month and national attention given to shelter dog adoptions, HHS anticipates an increase in its adoptions during October; however any time is a perfect time to adopt a shelter puppy/dog. AHA advocates rescuing a dog from a shelter “to save a life and greatly improve your own.”

Visitors and potential adopters are always welcome at Hinsdale Humane Society, 22 N. Elm Street, Hinsdale. For general information, shelter hours, and to view animals available for adoption online, please visit: hinsdalehumanesociety.org