Picture a ‘toys for tots’ campaign but for homeless pets awaiting adoption into their new forever homes and you have the fourth annual Monster Holiday Drive organized by the national organization I’m Not a Monster (MonsterHolidayDrive.com).
I’m Not A Monster is an advocacy initiative that aims to dispel myths associated with misunderstood dog breeds, particularly pit bulls. Along with educating the public, the initiative promotes shelter pet adoption and networks animals in need.
The 2015 Monster Holiday Drive campaign is now underway coast-to-coast and the greater Houlton area has a front seat to it, thanks to local therapy dog Emma the Sidekick, lovingly called a Monster Elf during the holiday season. Emma was the first INAM representative in the state of Maine. Although brother JoJo joined the INAM family earlier this year, Emma is the only Monster Elf in the state and this year she is collecting for Ark Animal Sanctuary and A Life Line in Smyrna Mills.
Donations that are needed: canned/bagged cat food, litter, lots of litter, kitty treats, horse pellets, treats, horse blankets, small farm animal supplies. Both organizations rely solely on the kindness of donors, so every little bit helps. An Amazon wish list for reference can be found through the Shop Now button on Emma’s facebook page: fb/EmmaTheSidekick.
There will be a collection drive at Tractor Supply Co., North Rd., Houlton on Saturday, Nov. 14 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Collection boxes will also be available through Christmas time at Hollywood Pet Salon, 70 Main St and Town & Country Clothing and Footwear, 2 Market Sq., both in Houlton.
