This Valentine Season, Ming the cat is looking for someone to share his unconditional love; so is Digsby the dog, and hundreds of other orphaned animals living at Associated Humane Societies' three shelters while they wait for new forever homes.

Both Ming the cat and Digsby the dog wait for love at our Forked River Shelter.

For the lucky ones, Cupid’s Arrow will strike a loving family or individual who adopt them. But for most, another day will go by and they will still be waiting. The numbers of stray, abandoned and surrendered cats, dogs, kittens and puppies continues to grow as the economy shows no relief. Meanwhile, the three AHS shelters in Forked River, Tinton Falls and Newark work hard to care for them.

“Pet adoptions are down, but the number of animals coming through our doors is way up. A pet offers so much unconditional love – it’s the perfect antidote for stressful times,” said Roseann Trezza, Executive Director, AHS/Popcorn Park. “Unfortunately, for many, it’s just not the right time to bring a pet home. For those animal lovers, we offer the Share-A-Pet program.

"Through Share-A-Pet, individuals can sponsor dogs and cats who make their home at AHS’s Kitty City or Animal Haven Farm for the remainder of their lives if not adopted. AHS invites sponsors to visit their pet, bring treats, take them for walks … and even adopt them."

Share-A-Pet sponsors through our web site will receive via e-mail a color photo of each dog or cat they are sponsoring and a letter telling about the health and activities of the animal every four months plus the Society’s publication, the HUMANE NEWS. All sponsors will also receive a Share-A-Pet membership card, which entitles you to free admission to Popcorn Park Zoo for the duration of your sponsorship.

“Instead of flowers that eventually die and candy that just adds empty calories, a Share-A-Pet sponsorship for your loved one is the perfect Valentine’s gift,” Ms. Trezza said. “You’ll truly be giving a gift of love that will go a long way.” 

Learn more about the Share-A-Pet program today and share the love this Valentine's Day.