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In today’s Herald, you will find two very special pages devoted to adoptable pets at the Mower County Humane Society.

Numerous times throughout the year, we run our Adopt A Pet supplement that lists dogs and cats available for adoption and we challenge you to look through those photos and not come away with a pang in your heart.

While we understand that pet adoption isn’t for everyone, if you have considered or are considering bringing a pet into your home, we hope you start with the Humane Society.

Most of the animals that come through the Humane Society are not there because of something they did, but rather because a circumstance beyond their control has brought them to the Humane Society.

For many, it’s fortunate because they have now come to a place with caring volunteers who want the best for these animals who often come from a variety of backgrounds, some of them challenging and unfortunate.

Each animal at the Humane Society deserves a loving home with loving owners who will take the time to care for them in the way that is befitting of each animal.

In some cases, this will not be easy. Animals that come from the shelter will require special circumstances at their new home. They will require patience in some instances and they will require training.

But in the end, we can confidently say, it will be rewarding because the unconditional love of an animal is good for the soul and our mental wellbeing. They play, they snuggle and they keep us active.

And if adopting a dog or cat into your family just isn’t something you can do, but you still love animals, we encourage you to consider volunteering. A few issues ago we spotlighted that need for volunteers and, again, while the work will be hard, it will also be rewarding.

You will be helping to give these dogs and cats a step in the right direction as they wait for their forever home.

We are fortunate to have a Humane Society in Austin that constantly and tirelessly works for the betterment and advocacy of the animals in its care, so please consider either adopting when looking for a pet or volunteering to help care for these animals. We are confident that the rewards will make any effort you give worthwhile.

For more information on the animals in the Mower County Humane Society’s are or to volunteer, visit: https://mchs.rescuegroups.org/