James City, CRAVEN COUNTY — Volunteers at the Colonial Capital Humane Society spent their day preparing and serving a special Thanksgiving meal to the furry friends.
For at least a decade, this tradition has brought smiles to both the volunteers and the animals. Sara Rodgers, the shelter’s director, says the event is about more than just the food.
Caroline Swindell, a volunteer who has already adopted three rescue dogs, said helping out on Thanksgiving felt natural.
“The fact that they have to spend the holidays by themselves is just enough to get out here,” Swindell said. “They need a break.”
The dogs eagerly gobbled up their meals, a tasty upgrade from their usual kibble. One particularly lucky pup even managed to snag a second helping, wagging his tail the entire time.
After the feast, volunteers took the dogs for walks to burn off those extra calories and keep them ready for adoption. Hannah Ouna, another volunteer, said the event is a way to show the animals they are loved.
“Just the fact that we can come out here on a day like Thanksgiving, give thanks back to the shelter, to the dogs, letting them know we love them and care for them,” Ouna said.
Rodgers added that shelter dogs often face unfair misconceptions.
“I think people have the misconception that there’s something wrong with shelter dogs, and there absolutely isn’t,” she said.
Rodgers describes the shelter as a close-knit community.
“These dogs are family to us, the staff is family,” Rodgers said. “I’m exactly where I want to be today.”
Currently, the Colonial Capital Humane Society is nearing capacity, with only two empty kennels. One long-term resident has been at the shelter for eight years, waiting for their forever home.
As Thanksgiving wraps up, the shelter hopes their event not only brought joy to the dogs but also encouraged more adoptions.
For those celebrating at home, The Humane Society shared a list of do’s and don’ts for feeding pets during the holidays.
Safe Foods for Pets:
Unseasoned turkey or ham
Plain rice, carrots, and green beans
Cooked or canned pumpkin
A small dollop of whipped cream
Unsafe Foods for Pets:
Turkey skin, bones, or stuffing
Garlic, onions, or nutmeg
Grapes, raisins, or mushrooms
Foods with xylitol, like sugar-free desserts
By following these tips, pet owners can make sure their furry friends enjoy the holiday safely.
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