This article was featured in WYDaily on 7/12/24
The Heritage Humane Society shares that there are just as many opportunities for dogs and dog lovers as there are adoptable dogs. Greater Williamsburg welcomes four-legged friends with an abundance of dog-friendly trails and dedicated play yards, bowls of fresh water along Merchant’s Square establishments, and a year-round calendar of events through The Heritage Humane Society. For dog lovers, there are always adopting opportunities, however, there are also temporary opportunities to enjoy canine companionship.
A star-spangled tradition
One of summer’s most festive events for pups was this year’s Fourth of July Annual Dog Ice Cream Eating Contest. Held at Billsburg Brewery, hundreds of onlookers cheered on 38 dog contestants as they raced to be the first to finish their dog-friendly frozen custard provided by The Meadows Original Frozen Custard.
The engaging idea was turned into action years ago by Scott Coelln with The Hungry Pug Food Truck. Originally a hot dog eating contest for people, in 2023 the contest changed to an ice cream eating contest for dogs to the delight of the crowd. Proceeds from each $20 contest entry, the 50/50 raffle and merchandise resulted in $1,026 being raised for the homeless pets of The Heritage Humane Society.
The contest had four heats, each producing a finalist. Those four finalists competed for the grand prize of a gift basket generously donated by The Nautical Dog. Two dogs tied for first place and agreed to split the gift basket.
Adoptable dogs at events around town
The Heritage Humane Society offers different opportunities for dog lovers to pair up with its adoptable dogs for temporary fun — and an always-welcomed break for these sweet pups from life at the shelter.
People can meet adoptable dogs around town at meet and greets at places such as The Nautical Dog in New Town, become a foster, take a Fido Field Trip together or at shelter events such as the Fourth of July Dog Ice Cream Eating Contest. With 94 dogs currently in its care, The Heritage Humane Society invites the community to come meet them, adopt them, foster or head out on a Fido Field Trip.
Three adoptable shelter dogs joined in the festivities at the Independence Day celebration and contest while hoping to connect with their furever family. Amadeus did and was adopted on July 7. Both Maya and Pony are still available for adoption. Meet the two:
Maya. This delightfully golden brown girl with a buttery sweet personality originally arrived at the shelter at a heartbreaking 29lbs. Emaciated, yet a warrior, she recovered with round-the-clock care from The Heritage Humane Society and veterinarian expertise. This social butterfly is a happy girl who loves going to local events and on Fido Field Trips with her “Adopt Me” harness on with the hopes that someday very soon she’ll find her forever family and begin the rest of her life. One of Maya’s adventures was to Williamsburg Kia for our weekly Furry Friends Friday video with The Tide Radio. Maya now has a sponsored adoption fee thanks to Williamsburg Kia.
Pony. This calm, mild-mannered gentleman has impeccable manners. Pony enjoys palling around with people, going for walks on the area’s many dog-friendly trails, and even enjoys ferry rides. He’s learned basic commands, gets along with people and other dogs, and even carries his toys with him to the dog park. Pony is waiting to play fetch with his forever adopter.
Help needed
The Heritage Humane Society has critical needs for help from area dog lovers. Nationwide, many dogs are overwhelming shelters and Greater Williamsburg’s largest homeless pet shelter is no different. There are many opportunities including fostering, volunteering, walking and socializing dogs at the shelter, taking dogs to fundraising events and on Fido Field Trips.
The various opportunities help those interested determine what works best for their schedule and lifestyle while providing an opportunity to offer much-needed care right here in the local community.
Adopt, foster and discover new friends
Nearly 250 dogs, cats and small pets are currently in their care. Adoptable pets are available to meet during The Heritage Humane Society’s visiting and adopting hours from 12 to 4:30 p.m., Tues. through Sun.
To learn more, visit HeritageHumane.org, call 757-221-0150, or visit The Heritage Humane Society located at 430 Waller Mill Rd, Williamsburg, VA 23185.
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