homes via the Internet

By BETH LAKEY

Staff Writer

Animal lovers involved with the Humane Society of Pike County hopes use of the Internet will help homeless animals in the area find a home.

The Humane Society of Pike County has joined the PetShelter Network, which has a web site that links the public with animal shelters and rescue groups across the nation.

Homeless animals’ photos and compelling stories will be shared online with over 3,000 potential adoptive homes, daily.

Launched in April 1998, the PetShelter Network is a searchable, user-friendly database that lists animals available for adoption. Use of the site is free to both participating shelters and members of the public.

Anyone interested in a pet can use a home computer to search for an animal of a particular breed, size, gender or age.

"We’re delighted to have the Humane Society of Pike County join our network," said Sue Clement, PetShelter’s executive director. "Our goal is to help lovable shelter animals find the homes they deserve."

Those who have been taking in homeless animals in Pike County hope joining the PetShelter Network will help more of these animals find homes faster.

Larry Fogelberg of Troy said most residents would be surprised by the number of spray animals roaming the roadways of Pike County.

"So many animals in Pike County are strays or abandoned," said Fogelberg.

He estimates about 300 animals a year are left homeless and less than 10 of those end of finding human companions who will feed and care for them.

"Those are not good numbers," said Fogelberg, who has taken several dogs into his home.

As a matter of fact, Fogelberg recently found homes for two dogs, but still has eight that need loving families.

Through PetShelter Network, Fogelberg hopes "we can make more placements of these animals.

"This is just the tip of the iceberg," he said of joining the PetShelter Network, adding "anything we do is going to be a big improvement."

For more information about animals available for adoption, visit www.PetShelter.net or call 670-9627.