Shoppers eye furry companions

By By Erin Hilsabeck / staff writer
May 30, 2004
While some people were at Bonita Lakes Mall Saturday to scan the latest styles or find an unbeatable sale, volunteers with the Lauderdale County Humane Society were there for a different reason.
Armed with fluffy kittens and rambunctious puppies, the volunteers were geared up for "Homeward Bound," the society's monthly pet adoption program.
Stephanie Lee, president of the Lauderdale County Humane Society, said when the mall is packed with shoppers, the cute and cuddly animals have few troubles attracting attention and finding homes.
The society brings several animals, which are held in roomy cages and pens, to the mall at least once a month.
But during the summer, humane society volunteers said good homes for pets are harder to find.
Despite that, Lee said, she and the other volunteers never push people into adopting a pet.
Aubel agreed.
Overpopulation is a growing problem in Lauderdale County. Last year in Lauderdale County, 3,000 dogs and cats that were euthanized a relatively painless and humane form of killing because of lack of homes.
Lee stressed the importance of spaying and neutering pets, saying some people need to learn how to be more responsible animal owners.
Aubel is currently the foster owner of a black cat named Jezebel. The 11⁄2 year old feline has been shuffled around to three different homes over the last three months. "We know we can't save everything, but we can sure try," Aubel said. "We'll feel good when we know she's going to a good home."