Hot dog! While it feels like time froze since last year, the holiday season is almost here. It’s already a popular time to adopt a pet, but tack on a pandemic, and local humane associations are busier than ever! Shelley Janke, executive director at the Eau Claire County Humane Association, said that because of COVID-19, applicants might experience a delay in the adoption process. “We’ve been struggling to keep up with the demand,” Janke shared. “More people want animals because more people are working from home now.” However, it’s still important to save time by filling out your application ahead of time to meet the animals. 

“The holidays are a very fun and festive time, but all of the commotion can be scary and stressful.” –Lisa Drenckhahn, Dunn County Humane Association

Additionally, Lisa Drenckhahn – volunteer and event coordinator at the Dunn County Humane Society – said your furry friends need time to adjust to their surroundings. “The holidays are a very fun and festive time, but all of the commotion can be scary and stressful,” Drenckhahn said. When it comes to pampering your pets and making them comfortable, the options are endless. Drenckhahn suggested going to the dog park or taking your four-legged friend for a walk, and Janke recommended getting your pets groomed or picking up interactive cat and dog toys.

Jim Reiman, the owner of Tropic Waters Pet Center in Eau Claire echoed this sentiment, adding that interactive toys are great for other pets, too. “We have all kinds of bird toys; they are really interactive and playful,” Reiman said. “Also, we have toys for rabbits, and the wheel or hamster ball is great for hamsters.” In addition to toys, Tropic Waters has lots of fun treats – from holiday cookies for pups to yummy food for fish. However, Reiman emphasized that spending time with your pets is the best gift of all. “They want that social interaction,” Reiman said.

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For more information, check out The Eau Claire County Humane Association at eccha.org, The Dunn County Humane Society at dunncountyhumanesociety.org, the Chippewa Humane Association at chippewahumane.com, and Tropic Waters Pet Center at tropicwaterspets.com.