NATCHEZ — The furry friends at the Natchez-Adams County Humane Society shelter are hoping Santa Paws brings them a very special gift this year — a spot under someone’s Christmas tree.

Humane society board member Linda Kennon said puppies and kittens make great gifts for the holidays, but said it is important to remember pet adoption is a commitment.

“People who are going to adopt need to know that it is for life and that their children are going to be willing to help,” she said.

Board chairwoman Kathy Fitch said if animal lovers can’t adopt, the shelter is always in need of monetary donations to support its transport program, pay vet bills, buy supplies and keep the doors open.

Humane society supporters can visit natchezpetadoptions.org to download a form to sign up to make a monthly donation of any amount through an automated bank draft, Fitch said.

With all the mouths to feed at the shelter, Fitch said the shelter is also always in need of canned and dry dog and cat food. Cleaning supplies, especially bleach and Pine-Sol are needed, as well as blankets, towels, dog beds and carriers.

A wish that is always on the list for the humane society, Fitch said, is that pet owners of the Miss-Lou spay and neuter their dogs and cats.

“Our main problem around here is overpopulation and unwanted litters,” Fitch said. “We take in almost 2,000 animals a year now, which is down a little bit from previous years, and we think that’s because more people are participating in spaying and neutering.

“But the pet overpopulation is a problem because there is still a lack in participation in spaying and neutering.”

Monetary donations can be made online at natchezpetadoptions.org or mailed to P.O. Box 549, Natchez, MS, 39121.

Other donations may be dropped off at the shelter, located at 392 Liberty Road.

Photos of adoptable pets are available online at natchezpetadoptions.org.