Two upcoming events at the Ohio Valley Mall will feature a “Smooch a Pooch” booth where shoppers can pet dogs that will be up for adoption at the Belmont County Animal Shelter. (Photo Provided)

The Belmont County Animal Shelter and Belmont County Cat Stray Shun have partnered up once again for three upcoming fundraising events.

On Saturday and again on Feb 7, the duo will be at the Ohio Valley Mall from noon until 3 p.m. On Feb. 12, they are teaming up at the Belmont County Courthouse from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Organizer Candace Fleagane said that the events will have Valentine day decor, raffle baskets, dog coats, homemade dog biscuits, jewelry and a giving tree to raise money for the organizations.

Fleagane said that the giving tree is a tree with pictures of adoptable dogs and cats where people can donate $5 and take a picture home. The money raised through the tree is used for veterinary expenses.

She added that the pictures could be a nice Valentine’s Day gift for a friend.

In addition to the festivities, a Smooch a Pooch booth will be available to provide shoppers with the ability to pet and play with dogs that are available to adopt.

Fleagane said that the events are a big help for the organization. In the past, people have filled out adoption applications at the mall or will go to the animal shelter or go online to fill out an application because they saw a dog or a cat at the event that they wanted to adopt.

Fleagane said that dog adoptions are always $125 with adult cats over one year old being $50. Kittens are $75 but longhaired kittens are $100.

She added that the adoption fee covers spay and neuter as well as its first shot.

“The cats and dogs are all completely vetted. The only thing about the kittens is that sometimes they have to come back for a second shot. Because it’s like babies, you have to give one shot and then three weeks later they have to have another shot,” Fleagane said. “Sometimes by the time they get adopted, they can have both of their shots already done.”

Fleagane said no animals will be available for adoption at the courthouse.

“But we are allowed to sell cookies,” she said. “We’re allowed to sell dog cookies at the mall, but we’re not allowed to sell people cookies at the mall. But we are able to sell them at the courthouse. Even though it’s at the courthouse, the public is welcome.”

Fleagane added that a plethora of both human and dog cookies will be available for purchase on Feb. 12.

If you are not able to make it to either event, Fleagane said that she will be more than happy to meet you for a purchase. Fleagane can be contacted at 740-338-9339 or through Belmont County Cat Stray Shun’s Facebook page. You can also contact her through the Belmont County Animal Shelter at 740-695-4708.