PLATTSBURGH — Wiggly dogs and sleeping kittens drew children and adults to Checkerhill Farms recently.
Elmore SPCA in Peru was showcasing some of the many animals it has who are in need of homes.
An active male lab mix, Schroeder, greeted prospective pet owners with licks and jumps. Rory, a large Pomeranian who was abused, and Patches, a female terrier mix, both like women better than men.
Each dog has a unique personality, and shelter workers try to match them to the right new owner.
"We ask interested people to fill out an application then we have to check them out," said Carol Solari-Ruscoe of Peru, secretary on the Board of Directors.
"The applicant must show that financially they can take care of the animal and that they really want them. If it doesn't fit their lifestyle, the pet ends up coming back, and that is traumatic for the pet. Puppies and kittens may be cute and small when adopted, but they can become large before you know it."
The LeBlanc family of Peru stopped by because their 4-year-old son, Sammy, and their 21-month-old daughter, Cecilia, had shown interest in a pet.
"We're not sure what we are looking for," said their mom, Jessie. "Cecilia wanted a puppy, but now she's over there petting the kitties. It was Sammy who wanted the cat."
Two large pet cages held kittens and cats. With names like Cinnamon, Shiloh, Ayla and Kitty, each looked like a candidate to sit and purr on a new owner's lap.
Kathie McCorry of Beekmantown, a volunteer at the shelter, admitted she has a hard time saying "No."
"I take care of rescue cats. Right now, I have 18 cats, but only four or five are up for adoption."
Two of the available cats are a Maine coon cat and a Siamese who are good friends.
"The Maine coon is big and black, and I really hope they can go to a good home together because they are good for each other," McCorry said.
Solari-Ruscoe said the day went well. Schroeder, and his sister, Nell, were adopted. Additionally, a brindle pit bull named Diesel brought in by Joe Mott, dog-control officer for Champlain and Rouses Point, went home with a new family.
Although the Elmore SPCA building has been gutted and is being remodeled, McCorry said at last count they had 150 outdoor cats plus cages of adult cats and kittens inside. The need is great, and the organization hopes to better serve the homeless pet population.
"The euthanizing room is gone," said McCorry. "We only euthanize the extremely sick and animals who are unable to be rehabilitated. We network with other shelters to get them into homes."
Under consideration by the Elmore Board is a fostering program for cats. Solari-Ruscoe, who has nine cats and four dogs, said the details haven't been worked out yet but they would be happy to hear from anyone who is willing to participate.
Both women said they have the highest regard for Executive Director Kc Mace and Animal Behavioral Specialist Kelly Allen.
"Kelly is the dog whisperer of Peru," said Solari-Ruscoe, referring to the popular television show. "She is amazing. There isn't a dog she can't work with."
McCorry hopes people will take the time to consider pet adoption.
"I say don't feel sorry for a shelter dog or cat, adopt them. They are worth the time."
E-mail Susan Tobias at: writertobias@gmail.com
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