PRINCE COUNTY, Va. β Prince George County Animal Services is spreading love this Valentine's Day with a unique fundraising event that could help save lives, both human and animal.
The shelter is hosting a kissing booth on Saturday, Feb. 14, where visitors can get a smooch from furry friends for just $1. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 8391 County Drive on Route 460.
"Everybody needs somebody to love. And everybody needs somebody to love them," said Misty Cobb with Prince George Animal Services.
The fundraiser serves a critical purpose beyond Valentine's Day.
"We have six dogs here that are heartworm positive and that does quite a number, literally on their hearts," said Rob Leinberger with Prince George Animal Services.
Heartworm treatment costs create a significant strain on the shelter's budget.
Beyond raising funds, the Valentine's Day event aims to find loving homes for the 60 dogs and 15 cats currently at the shelter.
"We have short ones, we got tall ones, we got furry ones. We got short haired, long hair, you name the mix, we probably have it," Leinberger said.
Two dogs in particular have captured the hearts of shelter staff and are hoping to find their forever homes.
Doobie arrived in October 2024 and is described as one of the calmest dogs at the facility.
Merchant, who is slightly older, has been at the shelter since December 2024.
Finding homes for some of the animals will allow shelter staff to dedicate more time and resources to caring for animals that need extra attention, including those requiring medical treatment.
The Valentine's Day adoption event offers additional incentives for potential pet parents as adoption fees are half price and include rabies vaccination, spay or neuter surgery, and all other required vaccinations.
"We hope they take advantage of our pretty nifty kissing booth here," Leinberger said.
CBS 6 is committed to sharing community voices on this important topic. Email your thoughts to the CBS 6 Newsroom.
π²: CONNECT WITH US
Blue Sky | Facebook | Instagram | X | Threads | TikTok | YouTube
This story was initially reported by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy. To learn more about how we use AI in our newsroom, click here.
