It’s a time of joy and kindness when the sound of jingling bells signals the onset of the most delightful season of all.
As countless warm homes, filled with excited children, eagerly anticipate Santa’s visit and the gifts nestled under the Christmas tree, many awaiting the holiday magic are longing for their moment of joy.
Without a cozy home and the comfort of loved ones, shelter pets are yearning for the love and care that only Santa can bestow during this festive time.
This holiday spirit reached one compassionate Santa Claus, who happens to be a veterinarian, prompting him to visit a shelter in Jacksboro, Tennessee.
Words can’t capture the pure joy that lit up the faces of these overlooked animals when they spotted him.
It Meant The World To Them
The kind-hearted veterinarian’s name is Carson Hutchison.
This 73-year-old doctor took it upon himself to spread cheer among the animal residents at Friends of Campbell County, Tennessee Animals, a shelter in Jacksboro, after a hectic day performing over 40 spay and neuter surgeries.
Having served as a veterinarian at the shelter for eight years, this gentleman truly understands the impact of a little attention and affection on these adorable pets.
In fact, science backs this up; a 2018 study featured in the journal Applied Animal Behavior Science revealed that just 15 minutes of individual petting can significantly enhance a shelter dog’s well-being.
Given that knowledge, it’s no wonder the animals at this shelter were thrilled to find themselves in the comforting embrace of this veterinarian.
Had they realized he was a vet, they might not have reacted so joyously, but this seasoned doctor took every measure to immerse himself in holiday spirit by donning the attire of everyone’s beloved Christmas figure.
Photos released by the shelter on their Facebook page undeniably capture the joy this encounter brought to Santa’s furry friends.
The shelter made a heartfelt effort to bring special cheer to its animals this Christmas, but their aspirations extend beyond just this occasion.
Yet Another Merrier Christmas At This Shelter
During this time of year, animal shelters throughout the United States are inundated with homeless pets. While it should be a joyful season, it often leaves a bitter taste for them as they recall the absence of their families.
“Currently, shelters are experiencing overcrowding. They can be daunting places for animals, and acts like Dr. Carson Hutchison’s are what truly make a difference for these deserving cats and dogs as they await loving homes.” said a spokesperson for the shelter in an interview with Newsweek.
This is why the shelter staff strives to create as nurturing an environment as possible every Christmas.
To accomplish this, they have teamed up with Best Friends Animal Society, assisting them in their mission to become a non-euthanasia shelter.
Currently, their progress is commendable with an 82% save rate, a significant improvement from just 10% a decade ago. In order to attain non-euthanasia status, a shelter must reach at least 90% save rate, indicating they are close to achieving this important goal.
We hope that next Christmas will bring the ultimate gift for these animals—a fulfilled promise from Santa, because they certainly deserve it.
