Shop Today and 10% Goes To ORHS!  Get all of your holiday shopping done, and help ORHS! Get yours now at www.CatLoversThings.com or www.DogLoversThings.com. Enter promo code ORHS at checkout and ORHS will receive 10% of your purchase to support their great work at the shelter. Don't forget to use promo code ORHS to benefit our shelter!   No one should spend Thanksgiving alone - including our shelter animals.
Can you open your house to a dog or cat who needs you?
We will provide everything you need - food, crate, etc. Please click on the buttons below to email us if you would like to participate.  Kira is a very sweet beagle-terrier mix - although she has beautiful black spots like a little Dalmatian. She is 3 1/2 years old and is the perfect size - 35 lbs. and has very soft fur - which does not appear to shed. She came to us from a rehoming issue and we can tell she was well loved by her former owners. She loves her daily walks and will occasionally stop to roll in a patch of soft grass to soak up some sun - and possibly to delay, by a few minutes, her return to the shelter. She loves treats and is learning some simple commands. We believe Kira would be a perfect family dog! We are all in love with her! Make an appointment to meet Kira today!
 Picture This:
A kid enters ORHS cat room, cozies up in a cushioned corner with the book of his/her choice, and begins to read aloud. Before long some cats cuddle up to the kid while others linger nearby, ears perked. What's Happening In This Scenario: The cats are learning social skills that will help them get adopted; the child is learning to care about animals; ORHS is strengthening relationships in the community. Introducing the Rescue Readers Program This program is designed to help our younger supporters give back to the animals in our community while developing their reading skills and their sense of compassion. It also promotes animal-savvy behavior, and helps our cats get positive, calm time with children This program is open to children ages 6-12 who wish to practice their reading skills by reading out loud to cats at our adoption center. Cats provide a non-judgmental and enthusiastic audience as they are soothed by the rhythmic sound of the children reading stories. Every kid will need a parent to volunteer with them. All must sign a general liability waiver and be supervised by parents at all times. Not only is the program free, but kids win prizes for every five books they complete. Kids also have the freedom to select their own reading material. ORHS has a stash of books but kids may bring their own books if they prefer. The cats will not care about a child's reading level or taste in genre—they will simply enjoy the soothing sounds of kids reading to them. Cat enrichment, child literacy, fostering compassion for animals in young people !!! To participate please call ORHS at 706-454-1508
 Kit is a medium size hound mix, about a year old and she came to us from Animal Control. She had been found wandering the streets and it looked like she had been on her own for awhile. She was emaciated and she appeared to have just given up. When Kit came to ORHS, she was still very thin, quiet and frightened. She seemed to like our volunteers when they sat with her and they eventually got her to walk on leash after carrying her outside, but she was still very afraid. Kit needed a foster home. Kit's foster mom sent us a description after having her for just a week.
My best description of Kit’s personality is that she’s a treasure chest full of love to share and we have the key. She is shy at first but I don’t think she’s been abused. She has no issues with men and once she feels comfortable she wants to be with people and wherever the action is. She thrives on affection and attention. I really think she’s spent most, if not all of her life alone, neglected and never comforted when she was afraid. Sad. At our house Kit has an older foster sister who sleeps most of the time, and a 2 year old foster brother that loves to play. He quickly showed her what toys are all about. Now they play tug and toss toys in the air, they wrestle and then they sit in the sun together. We thought having another dog would help Kit adjust your her foster home but I don’t think it’s necessary. Kit loves our dogs but she is most interested in being where people are. She always knows where I am and follows me room to room. She gets so excited when she sees me getting her food ready. Her whole body wags. She seems happiest when we sit to watch tv and she gets lots of pets and snuggles. She has a silly side to her that comes out more each day. What frightens Kit seems to be loud noises. Trucks or construction noises are scary and thunder will send her hiding. She relaxes when comforted but during a storm she runs into her crate where she feels safe. When it's over, it's over and life goes on. She's a sweet girl with lots of love to share. Kit is smart and eager to please. With patience I think she will be easy to train. She is crate and house trained and she walks pretty well on leash. This is one special little girl and with a family to love her she will blossom into a wonderful and loyal companion. 
According to the American Heartworm Society, heartworm disease is caused by foot-long worms that live in the heart, lungs and associated blood vessels of affected pets, causing severe lung disease, heart failure and damage to other organs in the body.
The treatment of heartworm disease is a long and tedious three-month ordeal, which includes injections and close monitoring by a veterinarian to help reduce the risk of complications. During this period, dog needs to stay calm. ORHS accepts dogs even if they are heartworm positive. All adult dogs that come into ORHS’s care are tested for heartworm disease. If they test positive, we work with the veterinarian on starting treatment. The cost of treatment for each dog can be $500 or more. The number of dogs we rescue that are heartworm positive is at a high level. Over the last year we have treated or taken in over a dozen heart worm positive dogs and we expect that number to continue to rise. We remain dedicated to offer the medical care to these dogs. Currently we are striving to maintain our level of commitment without the financial support from fundraising events that were cancelled this year due to COVID-19. Our goal of $10,000 will enable ORHS to offer this life-saving treatment for another year. Heartworm disease is serious. Your support, no matter how much or how little, means everything to the dogs who will be able to receive treatment and have a second chance at a forever home and a happy life. Thank You for donating and sharing the link to our fundraiser. Meet Petey. He is a handsome, long legged, hunk of a dog who is sweet as can be. He desires a family who will love on him so he can fill up on that love and give it back twenty-fold. “Just watch me wiggle,” he says. Petey loves spending time with humans, the more the merrier. He loves being brushed and taken care of. He loves air conditioning but if you are outside, he would rather be outside with you. He keeps his kennel in immaculate condition. He does great on a leash. All the women volunteers love him; he’s such a Casanova.
 What if you could style your ride and show your love for your pet and at the same time support ORHS, all while raising funds for the animals we rescue. Well, now you can! Get your personalized ORHS Pet Plate.
 Meet Brittany and Bridgette. They are sisters who are ready to fly the nest and make their own way. Though they enjoy playing together and spending time together, they wouldn't mind having their own special someone to love. Bridgette leans on Brittany for a lot of confidence, but she is growing stronger every day. Both are very sweet and would love some personal one on one attention. Here at ORHS, they are learning how to walk on a leash, how to play with toys, and how to get the volunteers to give them treats. They almost have the volunteers trained. Won't you consider giving one or both of them a Furever home?
 These handsome bonded brothers are just about as perfect as you can get! Found with two other siblings out in the woods, Hercules is the tuxedo and Mercury is the beautiful marble tabby. Both are exceptionally snuggly, affectionate and incredibly playful! And, as if they couldn’t get any better, these boys purr like the engines of two finely tuned automobiles. Their foster mom says one of their favorite pastimes is to nap completely intwined in the arms of the other…absolutely adorable to see!
We are looking for a home where these boys can stay together. Hercules and Mercury offer a lifetime of fun, excitement and just pure love to anyone lucky enough to take them into their family.  We have lots of great news for you today! Check out our Q2 '20 Newsletter and read about:
 My name is Marty McFly, but you can call me Marty. I am one chill pup. Don’t get me wrong, I have plenty of wiggles for you when I meet you, and I am full of energy, but I am a cool dog. I love people. People are my favorite. They give me treats, and walks, and belly rubs. I love, love , love to play in the yard and have lots of dog friends. I even love the little puppies. I am easy to walk and know some basic commands. I love to learn. Life is such an adventure and I can’t wait to see what’s around the corner. Could my new Furever Family be there? I hope so! Don’t forget to fill out an application for me.
 Otis is our 12-year-old Beagle who is looking for his retirement home. Otis is a world traveler and would like to finally settle down for the remainder of his years. Now that he has come to ORHS, he is having his needs taken care of and getting healthy.
Life on the road has been a little rough and he knows it’s time to have a soft spot to land. Otis is good with other dogs, especially young puppies. He has been an exceptionally good companion to his foster mom. If you would like to have Otis come to share his life stories with you, fill out an application for him. He would love to sit and reminisce his glory days with you.  Phyllis resembles the glamorous Abyssinian breed portrayed in paintings and sculptures of the ancient Egyptian cats which show an elegant feline with a muscular body.
With long legs in proportion to her lean body, big green eyes, short silky blonde hair, she looks like a Supermodel when she struts her stuff. Phyllis is approximately 8 pounds and because she is full of extraordinary energy she never has to diet. She is naturally small and slender. Phyllis has an intelligent, extroverted, playful personality. With her almond shaped green eyes, long pointed ears and inquisitive expression, you can’t help but fall in love with her. She is clearly attentive, she listens to you, but, unlike Alexa, she will keep your secret’s. She is also a graceful athlete. She will approach you on her terms but invites you to exercise, climb a pole, play or explore with her whenever you are available. She loves people and other cats but may not be your ideal lap cat. Phyllis came to ORHS after being rescued through a trap/neuter/release program in 2016. Although she is stunning and physically active, you don’t have to worry about her getting in “the family way.” She was able to leave her wild ways behind her when she was spayed so that she, and you, don’t have to worry about all the unwanted attention being so attractive usually brings. Phyllis loves Savage Garden (from her feral years). She has a private meditation she repeats and she hopes you will take her to her Purrfect Place: Like in your eyes, I see my future in an instant I think I found my best friend I knew I loved you before I met you I have been waiting all my life A thousand angels dance around you I am complete now that I’ve found you.  Gus is a genuine cutie! He is good with kids and other dogs. He isn't shy at all and is very welcoming to new people. He is a snuggle bug. At times he gets so excited he trips over his own feet. But mind your socks, he loves to steal them and hide them from you.
Gus is a 1+ year old Staffordshire Bull Terrier Mix. He is a little guy weighing in at only 35 pounds. He would make the perfect family dog and a great companion animal.  This pretty little lady is Betsy. She was an outdoor kitty at a home where an elderly lady lived before going into an assisted living situation. Betsy came to us last Spring, pregnant with 4 kittens. The beautiful babies have all been safely tucked into their forever homes and now it’s her turn!
Betsy is 2-3 years old and would be a great indoor-outdoor cat. She does, however, need to be the only cat and would do well in a home without very young children. Betsy LOVES to sit on your lap and is very affectionate. If you are looking for a fun, affectionate companion, this girl is for you!  Your change can make a change for homeless pets! All proceeds will go toward providing the basic necessities for the animals at our shelter.
This is a great project for your whole family! It's also great for kids, scout projects, and church groups. Thank you for your support! Please contact us with any questions. What You Should Know...  We are all on high alert as we follow the spread of the COVID-19 (new coronavirus) pandemic and its unprecedented impact on our lives. What about our pets? Are they susceptible? Can they transmit the infection? What should I do with my pet if I contract the virus? Where did this virus come from? While we are still trying to understand the COVID-19 pandemic, there is information emerging that is helpful in answering these questions.
Where Did It Come From? Coronaviruses are a family of related viruses that can cause diseases in mammals and birds. The name is derived from the Latin “Corona” meaning “crown” which refers to the microscopic appearance of the virus – a ball with protein spikes that resemble a crown. In humans, past coronavirus infections have caused respiratory tract infections that were mild such as the common cold or serious, even fatal infections such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and recently COVID-19. The name COVID-19 is an abbreviation from Corona Virus Disease and 2019, the year the disease was discovered. Both SARS and MERS have been responsible for epidemics over the past two decades and are related to COVID-19. Symptoms of coronavirus infections vary with species that are infected. Pigs and cattle have gastro-intestinal diseases and birds and cats have respiratory diseases. However, there is no transmission to people in the U.S. from our domestic or food producing animals. There is strong scientific evidence that the recent group of serious human coronavirus infections, SARS, MERS and COVID-19, have all originated from bats. COVID-19 has a 96% genetic match with a coronavirus recently found in a bat in China. Bats likely serve as asymptomatic carriers of these viruses. They have the infections without getting sick, but still can shed and transmit the virus to other animals or people. The bats are considered the maintenance host, that is, the virus remains in them and is the principle source of the disease long term. The recent group of serious human diseases caused by coronaviruses have also been isolated from a group of other animals that were infected from bats and then became carriers themselves, thus further spreading the diseases. These animals are termed intermediate hosts, meaning that they become infected as a species and can then amplify and further spread the virus. For example, the intermediate host for MERS is likely camels. Currently, the pangolin, an animal like a small anteater, is suspected of helping to initially spread COVID-19 after being infected from bats but this theory is still unproven and is being researched further. People can be infected either directly from bats but are usually infected from intermediate host animals. Pandemics occur when the viruses are capable of being transmitted from person to person without the involvement of animals. Early evidence suggests that COVID-19 originated from bats found in “live-animal” markets in Wuhan, China. It is a common cultural practice in China for people to visit large markets with many live animals that are all mixed closely together. People mix with birds, mammals, reptiles and fish which are sold and often slaughtered onsite so that people get fresh meat for their meals. This practice allows people to come into close contact with a variety of animal species, including bats, that may be carrying coronaviruses or other infections. We know that this same practice was likely the source of the SARS pandemic in 2002-2003. Some bats are hunted and used for food in other cultures including China. Not all these viruses are easily transmitted to people and even if they do infect people, the infections are often limited because the transmission doesn’t easily occur from person to person. COVID-19 has been an exception. It has the unique capability of being readily transmitted from person to person; it is highly contagious and thus has spread rapidly across the globe as a pandemic. Can Dogs and Cats Get Infected With COVID-19? The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that there is currently no evidence that household pets can contract or spread COVID-19. The CDC has also confirmed that they have not received any reports that pets or other animals in the U.S. have become sick with COVID-19. In addition, public health officials state that that is no evidence or research to support the idea that human to pet transmission occurs. Dogs and cats can acquire their own type of coronavirus infections from each other and these usually result in mild illnesses. Importantly, these animal infections only circulate within the pet populations and are not transmitted to, nor infect people. Thus. there is very strong evidence, from many sources, that our pets do not contract COVID-19 and are not are sources of the infection. Are There Diagnostic Tests Available for Pets for COVID-19 and Should I have My Pet Tested? While there is a diagnostic test that is being developed for COVID-19 for pets, it is not commercially available today. More importantly, there is no reason to test pets since they are not being infected with COVID-19. If your pet develops a respiratory disease, the recommendation is to work with your veterinarian to test for other respiratory infections. However, because COVID-19 is a new disease, more information is always being discovered about the dynamics of the infection. COVID-19 will continue to be monitored in pets but today there is no reason to tests pets and there is no recommendation to do so. What Should I Do with My Pet If I Contract COVID-19? The CDC recommends that if you contract COVID-19, you should keep a distance from your pets just like you would do with other people while you are quarantined. While there have been no reports of any pets being infected or sick with COVID-19, it is still recommended that you limit any contacts with your pets until more information is known about the virus. The concern is not that your pet will become infected, but it could possibly carry the virus on its fur or collar for a short time and transmit to another person. While this is feasible, it is certainly not a high risk. Yet out of an abundance of caution, it would be helpful, if possible, to have someone else care for you pet while you are sick. If this is not possible, be sure to wash your hands before and after interacting with your pet. Certainly petting, snuggling, kissing, being licked or sharing food should be avoided. If I Don’t Have COVID-19, Should I Change How I Interact with My Pet? If you are not ill with COVID-19, you can interact with your pet as you normally would including walking, playing and feeding. You should still practice good hygiene by washing your hands frequently and ensure that you pet is clean and well groomed. While you will not contract COVID-19 from your pet, there are other diseases and parasites that can be transmitted. How Should I Prepare for My Pet’s Care in the Event that I Am Infected with COVID-19? You should develop a contingency plan for your pet just like you should be doing for you and your family. Identify a person, either in your household or a friend, to care for your pet should you contract COVID-19. Make sure that you have an emergency kit prepared with at least 2-3 weeks of food and any needed medications. It is probably a good idea to have an emergency kit available for your pet anyway, in case there are further restrictions on social distancing. What If My Pet Needs to Go to The Veterinarian? If you are not ill with COVID-19 or have another communicable disease like the flu, call your veterinarian and follow her/his recommendations to work out a schedule for a visit. While many routine veterinary visits can be rescheduled, work with your veterinarian to check when he/she believes the visit is most appropriate and safe. If your pet has an emergency, call ahead to find out about needed care or recommendations to be seen. If you are sick with COVID-19 or have been recently diagnosed, you must stay at home and minimize contact with other people and avoid unnecessary risks.  Meet Bellamy
The meaning of the name Bellamy is “fine friend” and this beautiful girl is ready to live up to her name! Bellamy came to ORHS in late January and surprised us all when she gave birth to one puppy, which we named Uno. Bellamy was a very caring mother and Uno will be available for adoption when he is old enough. Now it’s time for Bellamy to find a forever home. Here’s what we know about Bellamy: we believe she is two years old and is a bulldog/ terrier mix. She loves her daily walks with ORHS volunteers and leads the way to the local bank for treats. She enjoys being outside and is content to relax in the sun. She loves toys and when given the chance will jump from her pen in the shelter to choose a new one and take it back to cuddle with. Bellamy loves being petted and is learning to trust both women and men. We believe Bellamy will be happiest as the only dog in the family. Won’t you give Bellamy the chance to show you what a fine friend she can be? 
SIMBA our little Tripawd King who has a BIG personality. He loves to talk to his neighboring canine fellas. And his sweet barks and playfulness grabs the attention of all volunteers. His eyes are absolutely mesmerizing.
This is what his foster had to say.... “Despite his rough start to life Simba has the heart of a lion. He’s happy, determined, sweet, funny, playful, independent, fearless, vibrant, adorable puppy who needs someone to help him continue to grow steady and strong. He listens, connects and wants to please. He has great determination and moves well but when he stumbles, he lands like a champ. He needs protection from obstacles but very little guidance. He loves spending time outdoors discovering new smells and sounds. Easy to train, doing well in the early stages of obedience and potty training. Sleeps all night in his crate. Simba is a wonder ! A special beautiful boy that will bring a lot of joy”.  Imagine if your whole family moved away and left you behind…alone. That’s exactly what happened to Gigi. She suddenly found herself all alone and outside, which is exactly where a girl like Gigi should not be: Gigi has tested positive for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). While cats with FIV can live long, healthy lives, the disease can compromise the immune system and can make routine illnesses (like respiratory infections) harder on the body. It is not transmissible to humans and is only known to be transmitted to other cats by means of deep bite wounds.
Gigi is exceptionally affectionate and was obviously very loved at some point. She is spayed, vaccinated and microchipped. This 2-3 year young lady will be a wonderful companion to someone lucky enough to see her beauty and potential. Feel free to contact ORHS for more information about Gigi. Ask for Kari.  LADY GAGA .... That's me. I was born with the cutest feet. The outward feet never stops me from running with my playmates in the yard at ORHS. I get along with all dogs and I am fine with cats as well. I am in great shape but believe it or not I am food driven. I am smart and easily trainable, if you have a few kibbles in your hand. I walk great on leash with other dogs ... I always hear my volunteers calling me the "model child". Yup, come take me home, ... you won't be disappointed. And did I tell you ? ... I am very pretty. TAKE ME HOME !!
 by Dr. Lonnie King
We all look forward to the holiday season which abounds with family visits, celebrations, parties, wonderful food and good cheer. However, the holiday season can also carry some serious hazards for our pets. Nothing can spoil holiday cheer like an emergency with a beloved family pet. Here are a few tips to keep your pet safe and healthy this holiday. Food: (Don’t) Let Them Eat Cake! Keep people food away from pets. If you want to share holiday treats with your pet, make or buy treats formulated just for them. There are a few foods that are especially hazardous for pets, and include: chocolate, grapes/raisins, alcohol, poultry bones, onions, garlic, raw bread or yeast dough and candy or sweets containing artificial sweeteners. Xylitol is an especially dangerous and toxic sweetener that may be found in some types of gum, candy and baked goods. Turkey meat and turkey skin are off limits because they may cause pancreatitis. This is also true for table scraps including gravy, meat fat, stuffing or pork products. All of these should be kept away from your pet. Poisonous Plants There are a few plants that are toxic for pets and may make an appearance during the holidays in our homes. Poinsettias, lilies, amaryllis and mistletoe can be dangerous to cats and dogs. In addition, potpouri mixes, cedar, holly and balsam may also be hazardous for pets. If you plan to use any of these decorative plants or products, be sure that they are kept out of the reach of your pet. Avoid Choking Hazards Be certain that your pet does not have access to choking hazards, such as candy wrappers, turkey bones, ribbons, wrapping paper, ornaments, toothpicks, very small toys and tinsel. You should consider not using tinsel to decorate a tree if you have a cat. Turkey carcasses or anything used to wrap or tie the meat such as strings, bags or packaging material present special dangers and they must also be kept away from pets. Not only can these items become choking hazards, but if swallowed, they can lodge in the stomach or intestine and require emergency surgery. Always put the trash away and store it where pets do not have access to it. Be Cautious of Electrical Cords Many holiday decorations are a fun way to get into the holiday spirit and many use electricity. If chewed, live electrical cords can cause burns around a pet’s mouth and can result in breathing difficulties and even seizures. To avoid this hazard, unplug lights and decorations when not in use and secure them out of the reach of pets. Christmas Trees Christmas trees can tip over if pets climb on them or try to play with lights or ornaments. If possible, try to secure your tree to a door frame or ceiling. For live trees that require water, additives to the water can offer additional hazards. Thus, do not add sugar, aspirin or other preservatives to the water since pets can be attracted to this water source and ingesting these products may present an additional hazard. House Parties and Visitors: Reducing Stress and Anxiety We look forward to holiday guests and hosting parties; however, for some pets, the noise and excitement can be upsetting. They can become nervous and anxious at these gatherings. All pets should have access to a comfortable and quiet place inside if they should want to retreat and get away from the commotion and disruption of their routine. A crate with a favorite toy in a separate room might be a good option and be available as a pet getaway. If you know that your pet is likely to get upset by parties or houseguests, talk with your veterinarian about other preemptive options for this common problem. Guests mean that more people will be coming into and going out of your home, and open doors can be a tempting invitation for a pet to escape and become lost. Therefore, you need to take care during these times to make sure your visitors are aware of your pet and make sure that your pet has proper and current identification information. Of course, microchipping your pet is a good idea regardless of the season. Other Potential Hazards Special holiday displays or candles are attractive to pets as well as people. Never leave a pet alone in a room or area with a lit candle. Pinecones, needles and other similar decorations may cause gastrointestinal problems when pets chew on them or swallow them and thus should not be available to your pet. It is a good idea to clear food from your table, counters and serving areas when you are done using them. Again, make certain that your trash is in a place where a pet cannot reach it. Plan Ahead We want our pets to enjoy the holidays with us, and taking these precautions can help ensure this season is fun and joyous. However, planning ahead, just in case, is a good idea. It is helpful to know in advance how to reach a 24/7 emergency veterinary clinic. Talk with your local veterinarian ahead of time and have phone numbers posted and available. There is also an ASPCA Poison Control Hotline that you can access at 1-888-426-4435 should you need immediate consultation about a potential emergency (there may be a fee for this service). Any emergency is stressful and knowing exactly what to do in such instances is extremely helpful. These tips are offered not to take away the joy from a wonderful time of the year, but, rather, they are reminders about how to keep our pets happy and healthy this holiday season. After all, they are family members, too, and need our care and supervision.  This shy, but sweet, little lady is an absolute joy and wants nothing more than a family to call her own. Trixie loves to be petted and will reciprocate with head butts all day long. But since she is shy, Trixie will need a quiet home without small children. We think she would be overjoyed to spend the bulk of her day sitting next to her special person on the couch, binge watching chick flix or talk shows. If you need a buddy to share your popcorn with (that won't fight you for the remote), this just might be the girl for you!
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