Turkey, sweet potatoes, gravy, stuffing and green beans are all on the menu
Sometimes it’s a dog’s life, but there’s always something to be thankful for.
For the dogs in the Gilmer County Animal Shelter (GCAS, that thing was a special Thanksgiving meal.
“They love it,” GCAS Director Kelly Pickering said of the dogs. “They devour it. They’re licking the plates, and they just love all the extra love and attention.”
Between 20 and 30 volunteers fed the dogs a Thanksgiving meal of turkey, sweet potatoes, gravy, stuffing and green beans.
Dogs can eat all these foods without issue, she said. But sometimes the spices and salt people use aren’t the best for canine stomachs. That’s why the shelter cooked all these foods without salt or spices, she said.
“Salt’s not good for dogs. Pepper is not good for dogs,” Pickering said.
Cats have different dietary needs, so they won’t participate in the event. However, the shelter is considering doing holiday cat events in the future.
For dogs, social life is extremely important. Time with volunteers helps keep them happy while they wait for someone to adopt them.
After the event, the volunteers enjoyed pastries, hot cocoa, tea, coffee and other foods.
“It’s the communal part of it that brings so much joy to everyone,” Pickering said.
On Christmas, GCAS will give the dogs toys to play with, as well as another special meal.