Pets of the week

Helping Paws Animal Shelter recently announced these Pets of the Week.

For details on these or other animals available for adoption through Helping Paws, call the shelter at (815) 338-4400. The shelter is at 2500 Harding Lane, Woodstock.

Remember to be a responsible pet owner. Always have your pets spayed or neutered and be sure to take them in for their annual veterinarian check-ups and vaccinations.

Jessie: This dog is a young adult female black Lab mix. She came from an animal control facility where only 1 percent of the animals are adopted. She is very sweet, easygoing, well-behaved and has a little white on her chin and chest. She is hoping to spend the holidays with her new family this year.

Jordan: This 8-month-old pup is a female black and white border collie mix. Her guardian fell on hard times, so a kind woman took her and then brought her to us. She is great with adults, kids, cats, dogs and even horses. This girl is happy, friendly, intelligent and ready for her forever home.

Thistle: This 8-month old female black and white domestic shorthair started out her life as a stray kitten. She is extremely friendly, likes to be held and loved. When you walk into the room she will greet you and want to be picked up. Her classic tuxedo look with white whiskers make her a real beauty.

Volunteers needed: Animal lovers who can spare a few hours a week can make such a difference in the life of the shelter's furry, fuzzy residents.

Cuddling with kittens, romping with dogs, helping to keep the shelter crystal clean, office work, socializing shy kittens and walking dogs are a few of the loving chores that volunteers are needed to perform.

Your helping out just a few hours a week can make an enormous difference in the quality of life for all the wonderful animal residents.

Volunteer forms for adults and youth, ages 14 to 18, volunteers can be printed off the Web site at www.helpingpaws.net. Call the shelter at (815) 338-4400 for information.