It was like a county fair, but for pets.
Saturday’s first ever Family Fur Day brought a couple hundred of area animal lovers and their furry companions to the Columbus County Fairgrounds. The event featured a drive-up rabies clinic that saw 96 vaccinations. Two dogs from the shelter went to new homes, including one that was among the shelter’s longest residents.
“We wanted people to learn more about Animal Protective Services, and to get to know our staff and volunteers,” Sheriff Jody Greene said. “People are always welcome to come tour our shelter. We’ve made some major upgrades that benefit both the animals and the workers. It’s a much better place now, and we are working to improve the lives of all our animals.
“This is just one way we can let people know more about what is going on.”
Dawn and Ray Battle of Comfort Creek Farms brought their ever-popular goats to the petting zoo held in the livestock arena. Lt. Josh McPherson, who supervises Animal Protective Services, brought along many of the residents of his personal farm, including sheep, a miniature donkey, friendly pigs and a bottlefed calf. The calf was one of the most popular stars of the show, since visitors got to feed the black and white baby throughout the event. Several of his family were along to help as well.
In addition to the petting zoo, When Pigs Fly offered lunch and a concession trailer had shaved ice and lemonade, among other cool treats. There was a water slide and bouncy house for the kids, and APS workers swapped off driving the kiddy train around the event site.
APS staff also presented Betty Gail Kronenwetter with a plaque recognizing her efforts to help the shelter. Kronenwetter owns All Creatures Great and Small, where dogs and cats were boarded while the shelter recently underwent major renovations. “Miss Betty” also provides emergency grooming for animals brought into the shelter.
Greene thanked the fairgrounds for hosting the event. He also said he hopes to make Fur Day a regular thing.
“Our staff and volunteers did some good work putting it together,” he said. “They have a love for the animals, and this really shows how dedicated they are.”
