Santa pet photo fundraiser benefits Middleburg Heights kennel (Photos)

MIDDLEBURG HEIGHTS, Ohio – The community put paws to the cause at Middleburg Heights Recreation Center on Saturday (Dec. 9) at the annual Pet Pictures with Santa fundraiser and supply drive.

Smiling pet owners placed their furry companions – dogs, cats and even a rabbit – on or beside Santa’s lap. Things got hilariously “ruff” at times, with squirmy, barking dogs sensing potential canine playmates, and treats, nearby.

Monetary donations will benefit the Middleburg Animal Rescue Kennel (MARK) by offsetting the cost of medical services and daily care for unclaimed animals being housed there.

Stacked on a nearby cart were donated “wish list” items, such as pet store gift cards, laundry products, paper towels, bleach and flea treatments.

Middleburg Heights Animal Control Officer Laura Takacs explained why the event is essential.

“Cats come into the kennel needing dental care, and we have a dog right now that needs a tumor removed,” Takacs said, emphasizing those types of unfortunate circumstances happen frequently. “That dog’s care will cost between $600 and $800 dollars.”

The city provides an annual budget for food and other provisions, but she said the money seemingly gets spent “in an instant.”

“So, there is always a need,” Takacs stressed. “It’s a constant, yearlong thing, but this year has been exceptionally hard for all rescue organizations and kennels.”

People who acquired pets during the COVID-19 pandemic are now abandoning or returning them.

“We’ve never had this many animals in the 11 years I’ve been there,” she said. “This is the worst abandonment year ever.”

Fortunately, all the local rescue organizations and kennels function as a team.

“We all work together,” Takacs said.

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