We're walking for the homeless pets!

My husband and I are excited to participate in this year's Bark in the Park and join hundreds of walkers and their dogs to raise money for homeless animals on October 3 in Chesapeake, VA. This is a passion that is very dear to our hearts.

We've named our team Gehron's Comet in honor of our newly-adopted beagle, Comet. We adopted Comet from the Chesapeake Animal Control in June. He was surrendered by a family who couldn't take care of him anymore. Getting Comet was one of the best decisions we've ever made! He has been a blessing to us.

There are many homeless, loving animals in the shelter that are patiently waiting to find their “furever” home. We believe these homeless pets deserve a second chance to be given a decent home, a family and for them to show their unconditional love. As the Bible tells us, those who realize their need to be rescued will in turn show all the more love towards he/she who rescued them (Luke 7:40-47). Any adopted-pet owner has and continues to experience this love from their rescued pet.

Help us save more lives like Comet! Your donation will go a long way in caring for the homeless animals and helping them find a home. The Chesapeake Humane Society works and struggles to find loving homes for these animals. But because they do not receive any government subsidies, they are completely dependent upon private donors, such as you, for its funding.

Visit our page on First Giving to learn how you can help pets looking for a "furever" home.

Commendable Shelter Project

Brilliant minds in the advertising industry led by The Ad Council joined forces with compassionate groups The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and Maddie's Fund to increase awareness of pet adoption from animal shelters across the United States.

Called The Shelter Pet Project, the campaign aims to break the stereotype perception about animals that end up in shelters. It is also a call to action for people to consider adoption of shelter pets instead of buying from pet stores or other sources.

The Shelter Pet Project was launched in mid-2009 and includes a public service announcement featuring a talking dog who was ditched by his owner and explaining that not all animals that end up in shelters are "crazy or emotionally damaged." The Shelter Pet Project's website offers vast resources and useful links for anyone who is looking for the perfect pet and a forum to discuss questions about pet ownership.

Statistics from the HSUS and Maddie's Fund reveal that eight million pets enter shelters and rescue groups each year. Three million of these pets are healthy and treatable but are euthanized due to lack of adoption.

I commend the advertising industry for taking this initiative. Advertising can be a powerful medium to influence or change public's perception and I am glad that this industry realizes the big help that homeless animals need. Help spread the word about The Shelter Pet Project. Visit their website and learn how you too can be a voice for the homeless animals.

Best Buddy

Buddy is a red male German Shepherd Dog and Chow Chow mix that was surrendered to the Peninsula because his owners were moving and could not take him with them. Now, Buddy is looking for a new home where he could give his love and loyalty.

Buddy may already be 8 years old, but don't let that age fool you. He is still as charming as a puppy, and has the wisdom of an adult dog. He is a good dog that loves to run and chase a tennis ball. He understands basic commands such as come, sit, down, head down, off, stay, shake, and wave. He is totally a smart dog and would definitely make a wonderful addition to any household!

Buddy has been neutered, microchipped and tested negative for heartworm. For information about his adoption requirements, visit the Peninsula SPCA or call (757) 595-1399.