By JAN GRIFFEY / Editor

I’m hoping for a very cold winter, and you should, too.

Why, you ask?

Not only does a decent winter kill many of the insects that pester us during our gorgeous spring and summer weather, it also puts an end to the typically seasonal romantic feelings of the stray, abandoned and feral animal population living in our midst.

Last year’s lack of a winter meant a boom in the population of kittens and puppies, which has put a huge and heavy burden on the Shelby Humane Society and the many groups and individuals who care for these helpless and innocent animals.

The Shelby Humane Society has made great strides in recent years toward saving as many lives of these innocent animals as possible. The work of the Society’s staff and volunteers is nothing short of heroic.

But this spring and summer’s tremendous increase in the animal population has put resources and abilities to a real test.

This Saturday — the first official day of fall — you have an opportunity to help. From noon to 10 p.m., the Shelby Humane Society will be hosting the “FALL For Me” Mega-Adoption event. Its goal is to find loving, forever homes for 75 Shelby County animals in need.

Don’t worry! You won’t miss a minute of your favorite football game. The Humane Society will have the games playing as you seek your new best friend. They’ll even be serving refreshments.

If you can’t make it to the Mega-Adoption event this Saturday, the Shelby Humane Society, located at 381 McDow Road in Columbiana, is open for adoptions Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 5:30 p.m. For more information, call 669-3916 or visit ShelbyHumane.org.

If you have room in your home and in your heart for a cat or dog, the Shelby Humane Society is the place for you this Saturday. Never will you find a more loving and grateful companion than the one whose life you save.

Jan Griffey is the Editor of the Shelby County Reporter. She can be reached at 669-3131 ext. 36 or by email at jan.griffey@shelbycountyreporter.com.