Jerry Henderson and members of the Lenoir County SPCA, staff and volunteers preparing a Christmas meal for the animals. Photo: Kristy Bock/Neuse News

The animals at the Lenoir County SPCA enjoyed a Christmas dinner of chicken, sweet potatoes and green beans and were treated to a toy as a present. Each year the members of the Lenoir County SPCA board, staff, and volunteers get together on Christmas day to be there for the animals who do not yet have a home.

“We have no idea whether or not the dogs know it’s Christmas, but certainly they will know that today is a special day. They will know they are loved,” said SPCA president Jerry Henderson.

With over 90 cats and 65 dogs sheltered at the Lenoir County SPCA, the board, staff, and volunteers do what they can to make it a special day for the animals. Each animal was given a dinner and a treat, and anything left over was shared for other animals in need.

“Just because they are in the shelter and not in their home for Christmas doesn’t mean they can’t enjoy Christmas just like us,” said Emily Fortney. “This is their home for right now so we’re going to treat it like their home for Christmas.”

The community can help by spaying and neutering their pets. They can also provide donations and coming out to volunteer if they are not in a position to adopt. The Lenoir County SPCA is always in need of volunteers. Volunteering consists of dog walking, helping feed the animals, help do dishes and laundry, getting the animals to socialize to help the animals get ready for adoption.

“If anyone asks you what the best thing you can give a dog for Christmas, then I think our answer would definitely would one word and that’s home,” said Henderson. “If you can give a dog a home, then you have shown everything you can to those who really can’t take care of themselves.”