‘Adopt, don’t shop’ in honor of National Pet Day

SYRACUSE, N.Y. — Furry friends were appreciated a little extra on Friday for National Pet Day. In honor of the day, CNY Central went to Helping Hounds Dog Rescue.

The rescue organization works with other dog organizations locally and out of state to take in dogs. The dogs taken in will usually have suffered from overcrowded kennels or bad situations.

Helping Hounds focuses on helping dogs find their forever home and match them with a family that fits their needs. They take in dogs of any breed, size and age.

The span of how long a dog stays there varies, depending on the dog.

Camilla, a friendly pitbull, has been at Helping Hounds for 67 days now.

Leigh Neumann, acting director of Helping Hounds, hopes people adopt their pets over shopping.

“We want people to look at all of their options,” Neumann said. “We hope that adoption is one of those options.”

Another dog named Ramsey came from a neglectful home. Ramsey was all skin and bones, but extremely friendly and looking for a paw-fect home.

Helping Hounds isn't only a place for families to adopt. The organization also has boarding and grooming services available.

Through a partnership with B.N.R. Bunkhouse, there are opportunities to foster dogs as well. The rescue is currently accepting donations and will be accepting new volunteers in May.

If you're interested in adopting a dog, click this link.