Let your heart be guided by the star of generosity during Operation Santa Paws.
“This is important because we don’t always have the funding to provide all the supplies needed to enrich our animals,” Programs Supervisor Mileny Robles said. “By receiving a variety of donations from our community, we’re able to give our animals the opportunity to feel comfortable here until they find their forever homes.”
This heartwarming campaign, running through Dec. 24, is your invitation to make the holiday season unforgettable for the precious pets awaiting their forever homes at local shelters.
Robles said she has worked with the Osceola County Animal Services for more than three years, and finding homes for animals is one of the most rewarding jobs anyone could have.
“Watching an animal come into the shelter scared, then slowly open and learn to trust again, is truly what it’s all about,” Robles said.
The campaign’s goal is to stock the shelters with muchneeded supplies, ensuring four-legged companions feel the love and warmth they deserve, just like their people do during the holidays.
Justin Rudd founded Operation Santa Paws in 2001 as part of the Haute Dog organization.
“The Haute Dog organization (pronounced “HOT”) is a diverse and growing network of dog owners, lovers, educators, rescuers, and supporters,” Rudd said on the Operation Santa website. “Our common bond has resulted in a unique and lively community of folks who share some qualities of our favorite dogs: devotion, spirit, and tenacity.”
Robles said it’s incredibly heartwarming to see our community continuously stepping up for animals in need.
“We couldn’t care for our animals the way we do without their support, and we feel so lucky to have a community that cares so deeply,” Robles said.
Robles said they have all types of animals at the shelter, such as dogs, cats, receive pigs, horses, and goats.
“While a long-term stay at the shelter is not preferable, we do what we can to make their stay with us a bit more comfortable,” Robles said.
Robles said donations from our community allows them to continue finding new ways to enrich our population and decrease their stress at the shelter.
“Our community has been so amazing,” Robles said. “We have received donations every week, and they are very responsive whenever we ask for specific supplies.”
Robles said donated treats are in high demand.
“Treats are always appreciated for our animals,” Robles said. “They enjoy plenty of treats throughout the day, and we’re always looking to keep our supply well-stocked.”
These donations can be dropped off in the shelter located on 3910 Old Canoe Creek Rd during opening hours. All items must be new or very gently used and in working condition. If used, they must be clean with no stains or tears. Among the things in high demand:
Bath or beach towels
Fleece throw blankets
Inexpensive cat toys (must be new)
Cardboard cat scratchers
Pet beds
Dog toys for large breed dogs and strong chewers
Plastic kennels of all sizes
Dog treats—Pupperoni, Purina Busy Bones, or soft training treats
Cat treats
Greenies Pill Pockets
Leashes—all sizes, but large dog appreciated
Harnesses—medium and large sizes
Collars—all sizes for cats and dogs
Newspapers without magazines or color ad inserts The Osceola County Animal Shelter will not accept blankets or pillows with stuffing, broken or dirty items, opened food or treats, expired food, prescription medication, used food or water bowls, choke or prong collars, fitted bed sheets and pillow cases, electronics, or Rawhide bones.
While Operation Santa Paws lasts until the end of December, Robles said OCAS has no deadlines.
“We are always accepting supplies,” Robles said. “However, we currently have a special promotion for this month only: donate a new, unwrapped children’s toy and receive a free adoption for any of our animals!”
Contact Animal Services at 407-742-8000.
