Life

'Bark the Herald Angels Sing' as Paws meet Claus

Charlie dressed for the Christmas event at Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards.

By Bill Moss, Published: November 24, 2013

They decked the halls with bow wows of holly at Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards when the Blue Ridge Humane Society hosted an adoption event and fundraiser featuring photos with Santa.

The Claus and paws event brought a few dozen dogs and their humans, who dutifully let the furry ones sit with Santa and presumably signal their Christmas lists. Nearly all dogs were well-behaved, though some were more vocal than others.
Lutrelle O'Cain, of the Humane Society, brought two puppies ready to be rescued.
"We've had a really good month of adoptions," she said. The shelter in Edneyville has about 30 dogs and 25 cats available for adoption. This time of year, families look to adopt a pet. That's a good thing, O'Cain said, although the shelter makes sure the adopters are ready for the challenge.
"It's a big responsibility but it's a good responsibility," she said. "We encourage all families to come in with the kids."
Carey O'Cain, the mayor of Laurel Park and a good sport, played Santa Claus — although that is confidential when it comes to the dogs who posed for photos.