Attendees who weren’t scaredy cats, and were even considering adopting, came by the Castaic Animal Care Center’s “Trunk-or-Treat” event on Saturday.
From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., potential adopters could not only meet the animals, but also even trunk-or-treat, take photos, purchase food and book shop, all while enjoying the festive decorations.
Volunteer Sophie Liepask, 17, a junior at West Ranch High School, said she signed up to volunteer at the shelter the day she turned 16.
“I’ve always really loved dogs, and I was actually 12, when I found out about the shelter, but you’re not allowed to volunteer until you’re 16. It’s sad to see the dogs, but when you spend time with them, they’re happier when somebody who comes to see them or play with them — it gives them a break from having to be in a cage,” Liepask said. “Today, we have Halloween stations. Some kids came in Halloween costumes. All the dogs here are amazing, and we have dogs [and cats] at every age.”
According to Sgt. Shannon Wahrman, the animal control officer assigned to the center, at least three dogs were adopted within the first few hours of the event.
“It’s great to get our community involved and have them come here to our care center. A lot of people don’t know about us, so it’s also a good way for exposure. And of course, a lot of our volunteers like to come and help with their animals. We’ve been having a really good turnout,” Wahrman said.
Among those who adopted was Long Beach resident Briann Eddy, who saw the picture of his new dog, Weems, the night before on the center’s Instagram page.
“My parents live out here, and on the Instagram page, I saw a photo of Weems and a few other dogs, and she really caught my attention. As soon as I met her in the cage, she jumped on me in a friendly way. I just felt like it was exactly what I wanted right now. She’s extremely friendly, and loves being around other dogs,” Eddy said.
Eddy is looking forward to building a relationship with Weems, whose name will be changed shortly.
“I’m looking forward to building a relationship with her and giving her the best home possible, and just making sure that she’s happy and loved. She seems like she has a lot of love to give, and I want to reciprocate that back,” Eddy said. “I feel like adopting is such a benevolent thing to do. Not for the feel-good purposes of your own, but for the betterment of the animals involved. They all deserve a home. They deserve to be loved.”
Eddy’s mother, Nicky, elaborated on the importance of not only adopting for the good of the animals, but also even for people.
“I really want my son to have a companion — a dog. He’s a veteran. Very loved, and he’s gone through a lot. I think it’s necessary for individuals, whether they’re a veteran or not or have traumatic injuries, brain injuries, PTSD, seizures, not to feel alone. That can help save lives tremendously,” Nicky said. “Between them, there was bonding immediately. She jumped on him, gave him wet kisses, and they connected right away. I knew that was the bonding that he’s been searching for.”
