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Here’s how to donate to your favorite animal shelter

Operation Santa Paws underway

Clay County Animal Shelter Jade Cat and Roo Dog (Copyright 2024 by WJXT News4JAX - All rights reserved.)

‘Tis the season of giving!

While we generously donate to charities and organizations and give to our family and friends, let’s not forget pets also need support.

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Help us raise awareness for local shelters by spreading the word on social media and tagging #OperationSantaPaws.

According to National Day Calendar, “Operation Santa Paws encourages animal lovers to share the gift of giving at shelters everywhere from December 1st to December 24th. During this holiday season, let’s show a little extra love to our furry friends whom we love with all our hearts.”

The campaign reminds us of the millions of pets in shelters in need of a loving home. Unfortunately, about 7.6 million companion animals (dogs, cats, and other domestic pets) enter shelters around the country yearly. Although many get adopted, the majority spend much of their lives in cages.

In 2001, Justin Rudd founded Operation Santa Paws as part of the Haute Dog organization. There mission is to encourage animal lovers to donate treats and toys for pets, ensuring that animals in shelters can feel loved and cared for during the holidays.

Here is a list of animal shelters to donate to.

Clay County

Clay County Animal Services

Clay County Humane Society

Safe Animal Shelter

Duval County

Animal Care and Protective Services

Jacksonville Humane Society

Safe Animal Shelter

St. Johns County

St. Johns County Animal Control

St. Augustine Humane Society

Forever Vets Animal Hospital at RaceTrack