Local Animals Getting Help Courtesy of Cary Seniors

Cary, NC – For cats and dogs waiting for adoption in animals shelters, it can be hard adjusting to life in a cramped environment or meeting new people. But a new project by Cary seniors is providing these animals with toys to keep them active and appealing to potential new families.

Entertaining Future Pets

Residents in Waltonwood Cary Parkway’s craft club have always had monthly projects but this August’s focuses on creating toys for the animals at the SPCA of Wake County. They have been crocheting toys with bells and other accessories as well as making tubs with fleece blankets.

“The SPCA has a lot of cats and giving them toys in their cages and crates gives them something to do,” said Christina Henderson, activity director at Waltonwood Cary Parkway. “And when people visit to adopt a pet, they can play with the cats and see if they like them.”

The craft club is mainly making toys for cats because the SPCA already gets many donations for dogs and cats can be overlooked.

“We know that just like humans, animals that socialize and play are happier, and in return, it makes that animal more likely to become adopted,” said Leigh Ann Hamby, executive director of Waltonwood Cary Parkway.

Fun For Residents

The craft club is all volunteers who meet every Wednesday to not only donate their time but also materials. And many residents, such as Lu Mazzu, grew up with pets so they have a special connection to this particular project.

“I know many people who have found wonderful animals through animal shelters, so being able to add something to their lives is truly special,” Mazzu said.

Henderson said the residents are having fun with the project and are already trying to improve it.

“They’re looking for ways to make them more entertaining for the animals,” Henderson said.

In the past, the Waltonwood Cary Parkways crafts club has done projects such as knitting boots and hats for newborn babies.

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Story by Michael Papich. Photos courtesy of Susan Hoover.