About 200 ‘pawty’ animals celebrate shelter’s first anniversary

Photos: Humane Society's paw-ty

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By Andy Sedlak, Staff Writer Updated 7:39 PM Saturday, August 21, 2010

HAMILTON — Dark, moody skies could not dampen the “pawty,” or keep Trooper at home.

The 1 1/2-year-old boxer accompanied his owner, Richard Menard of Oxford, on Saturday, Aug. 21, to the first anniversary celebration of the Animal Friends Humane Society’s new shelter at 1820 Princeton Road.

About 200 community members celebrated from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the event that included vendor booths, demonstrations and food.

“The weather has held off,” said Meg Stephenson, the shelter’s director since 2008. “We’re thankful for everyone that came out.”

The shelter held its grand opening in August of 2009. Prior to building its new location in Hamilton, the shelter was a fixture in Trenton for 50 years. The new shelter was the product of a tax levy passage in 2006.

“Typically, we take in about 7,500 animals in a year,” Stephenson said. “Unfortunately, come 2010, we’re taking in more animals — about 500 more animals this year versus last year. But we’re glad to be part of that service.”

The shelter has granted 150 adoptions in August alone, Stephenson said.

Menard, who adopted Trooper from the shelter in February, has an iPhone stuffed with pictures of his best friend.

“People look at my phone and they say, ‘I think you have a love affair with your dog,’” he said with a laugh.

Menard admits he had some qualms about adopting a pet from an animal shelter, in fear of behavioral problems.

“But he’s so at home now,” Menard said. “He’s phenomenal.”

Menard’s friend, Andrew Wilson, also of Oxford, credits Trooper with Menard’s growing social life.

“Richard is more fun now,” he said laughing.

For information about adoptions or volunteering, call (513) 867-5727 or visit www.animalfriendshs.org.

Contact this reporter at (513) 705-2871 or asedlak@coxohio.com.

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