FORT RILEY, Kan. -- While some may prepare goodies this time of year for Family and loved ones, the Pet Club at Fort Riley's Middle School Teen Center created special treats for local canine and feline friends.
The club shared several bags of homemade treats with sheltered animals Nov. 21 at the Fort Riley Stray Facility.
A cake was made for the dogs, too, said Dashanae McClelland, sixth-grader, Fort Riley Middle School.
"We do a lot of 4-H Clubs at MSTC and (the) Pet Club is by far one of the favorites," said Anitra Rivera, director, MSTC. "The teens not only get to pet the animals, but they also get to learn and take part in giving back to the community."
The club started at the beginning of the school year, and members have volunteered to help the facility several times in the past few months. More than 30 youth participate in the organization.
MaKenzie Ory, sixth-grader, FRMS, picked her favorite cat while visiting the facility.
"I just like to call him 'Snuggles,'" she said.
"I liked (all) the animals," said Angelica Chandler, seventh-grader, FRMS. "I have two dogs and a parakeet at home."
Animals at the shelter are usually picked up by the military police when they see a stray wandering, said Jacqueline Pool, kennel master, Fort Riley Stray Facility.
People who are no longer able to take care of their pets also can place them for adoption at the facility.
"We exist," Pool said. "A lot of people have no idea that Fort Riley has an animal shelter, and that's terrible in one way because if you are looking for an animal (to adopt), we're very close; if you've lost an animal, it more than likely has been here."
Pet adoptions are taking place, but the rate has gone down a little, she said.
"I liked playing with the dogs and petting the cats," McClelland said. "I'm happy that some of the dogs got adopted and some of the cats did, too."
"I couldn't imagine not having a pet, honestly," Pool said. "There's just something about the unconditional love."
Animal showings for adoption takes place noon to 4 p.m. every day, Monday to Friday, at the facility.
For more information about the Fort Riley Stray Facility, call 785-239-6183.
Students interested in joining the Pet Club can visit the MSTC for more information. A permission slip is required to participate.
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