Blue the Blue Heeler trotted into The Journal on Thursday wearing a festive Santa sweater and flashing a wide grin. He quickly crawled into a lap for cuddles.
This wasn’t a random holiday visit. Blue was making rounds for the Cortez Animal Shelter’s 12th annual 12 Strays of Christmas fundraiser.
To participate, businesses, individuals and families sponsor an adoptable animal with a minimum $25 donation. Funds help buy cleaning supplies, pet food and toys, according to Kennel Supervisor Jennifer Crouse.
As a thank-you, shelter staff advertise participating businesses on Main Street during lunch hour over Christmas break.
Sponsors so far include The Journal, KP Pawn, Laughing Buddha Yoga & Wellness, Slavens True Value, Pierce family (Belva, Nicola and Howdy) and Kidds Automotive Repair.
“Business owners: our four-legged elves will advertise your business at the shelter, on Facebook, in local media and even while strutting down Main Street during lunch walks,” the shelter said in a press release. “Talk about the cutest marketing team ever.”
Crouse said Blue has been at the shelter for about two months. He was found as a stray with no identification or microchip, and no one has claimed him.
The sweet dog is thought to be about 8 years old, despite his youthful appearance. Placing him has been difficult because he is hard of hearing, though he can hear high-pitched sounds.
Along with Blue, five other dogs and seven cats available for adoption. One stray, a Weimaraner mix named Barry, found a home last week, just in time for Christmas.
“We’d love to find everybody a home for Christmas,” Crouse said.
People can view available pets at https://24petconnect.com. To participate in 12 Strays of Christmas, contact the shelter at (970) 565-4910.
Donations can also be mailed or dropped off at the shelter, 2971 E. Main St., Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Requested items include cleaning supplies such as bleach (original scent), Pine-Sol (original scent), paper towels, liquid dish soap, dryer sheets, high-efficiency laundry soap, Lysol wipes and dishwasher detergent.
Dog needs: adult dog food (Purina One, Nutro, IAMS), puppy food (Purina One, Nutro, IAMS), Milk-Bones and jerky.
Cat needs: Purina One (sensitive stomach) cat chow, Purina One or grain-free, clay non-clumping litter and canned kitten food (Fancy Feast).
