On Tuesday, February 10th, representatives from the Bergen County Animal Shelter in Teterboro, New Jersey, brought fluffy companions to Emerson Junior-Senior High School for students and teachers to play with while spreading information about what their shelter accomplishes.

Mrs. Cariddi, a teacher at Emerson, noted, “Debbie and Karen shared that currently, they have 263 cats and 92 dogs up for adoption. They let us know that sometimes animals that are not shelter-appropriate, such as snakes, turtles, or axolotls, are placed with zoos or rescues in the area.”

Students who attended the event were able to pet an orange female kitten, which is 12 weeks old, and a bonded pair of older rabbits! 

Cariddi shared, “All of the animals were very good-natured with having students pet them, and comfortable with being approached by so many of them!”

This event would not have taken place without Emerson’s Paws for a Cause Club. The club is open to students who are focused on helping and supporting local animal shelters. Members do their best to assist shelters in need by making bird feeders, dog toys, bee hotels, no-sew blankets for kittens, and so much more! 

Cariddi added, “Students who attended seemed to enjoy this event thoroughly, and it was a very memorable experience!”