Humane Society will bring adoptable animals to your party

It’s hard to be a Scrooge when you’re sipping hot cocoa and snuggling a fuzzy critter.

The Humane Society of Southwest Washington will bring a furry dose of holiday cheer to Clark County next month. In exchange for a generous donation, the Vancouver nonprofit agency will deliver a batch of friendly puppies, kittens, dogs or cats to your office party or gathering Dec. 16 or 17. Humane Society staff and volunteers will treat you to cocoa and cookies while you enjoy the Cuddle Squad’s wiggly antics.

“It’s a fun way to take our mission out to the public,” said Denise Barr, the Humane Society’s vice president and director of marketing. “It’s just a good little puppy and kitten fix.”

The visits also are good exposure for the animals, who will be up for adoption. Humane Society staff members can’t predict the breed or ages of the dogs and cats on the Cuddle Squads — it will depend on what animals are under the agency’s care at the time, Barr said. However, four to six animals are expected to be present for each visit. Several Cuddle Squads will be participating to ensure the animals get plenty of breaks.

As any animal lover knows, the moments spent cradling a cute critter are priceless. But for the sake of fundraising, the Humane Society is requesting a donation of $200 for a 15-minute cuddle, $300 for 30 minutes and $600 for an hour.

To apply, go to southwesthumane.org and click on “Engage” on the top menu bar. Select “events” and then “Cuddle Squad.” Applications must be submitted by Dec. 4.

Because a limited number of slots are available, only people who sign up for an hourlong cuddle are guaranteed a visit. The other applicants will be selected based on their location in Clark County, because the Humane Society must plan an efficient driving route for stops. Applicants will be notified by Dec. 9 whether they’ve been chosen for a visit.

For more information, contact Sam Ellingson at sellingson@southwesthumane.org or 360-2132-2626.