(HARRISBURG, PA. December 19, 2023) The Humane Society of Harrisburg Area (HSHA) is giving families an opportunity to enjoy some “four-legged” company over Christmas. HSHA’s new initiative, “Home for the Holidays,” gives shelter dogs a break from their kennels in a relaxing, home environment and gives a short-term foster opportunity for families looking to help an animal this holiday season.
“The goal of the program is to give dogs a kennel break,” said Kristi Kleinfelter, Community Outreach & Foster Coordinator. “Giving dogs time offsite helps reduce stress they often feel inside the kennel and provides needed socialization in a home.”
“Of course, we all secretly hope the foster families end up adopting the dogs,” continued Kleinfelter. “But no matter what, foster families are providing a tremendous service to these animals as it helps reduces the dog’s stress, and we learn more about their behavior, ultimately helping in the adoption process.”
Families interested in fostering were able to apply in early December. From there, Kleinfelter found potential matches for dogs and families. While there was not a match for every family interested, nine families have been paired with a shelter dog for Christmas.
While the initial program asked fosters to care for the dogs for a long Christmas weekend, most families wanted to take the dog early.
“Any time out of the shelter is great enrichment for the dog,” said Aspasia Yeager, Interim Executive Director. “We are so grateful to have the support of the community and fosters that are willing to take these animals into their homes.”
“HSHA provides foster families with all of the education, support, and supplies needed to care for foster animals while in their care,” said Kleinfelter. “In turn, foster families provide the love and extra attention that many foster animals need.”
Anyone interested in learning more about fostering with HSHA, can visit humanesocietyhbg.org.
About the Humane Society of Harrisburg Area
The Humane Society of Harrisburg Area is a nonprofit organization dedicated to building a better community for pets and people through compassion, protection, education and collaboration. HSHA accepts homeless animals regardless of their breed, age, medical condition, or behavioral condition. However, HSHA does not euthanize adoptable animals due to lack of space or length of stay. The shelter assists thousands of animals each year through its residential care and adoption program, low-cost veterinary clinics and Veterinary Resource Center, pet food programs, and counseling services. Learn more at humanesocietyhbg.org. ###