Hometown 'Heroes' Help Homeless Animals Find New Families

Photo Credit: Silver Castle Photography

Look at these dogs and cats, snuggled by cops and firefighters—those who save lives, with those who need saving.

Cache Creek Animal Rescue’s “Homes and Heroes” project highlights its adoptable animals by pairing them with a local hero. New Lenox police, firefighters and local servicemen stepped into the spotlight to share their stories—and did some serious snuggling.

“We decided to embark on this project to highlight local hometown heroes to recognize and show our appreciation for all they do for our community,” said Anna Pec, Marketing Coordinator for Cache Creek. “This project has also given our animals several opportunities to spend beautiful days outside with heroes who gave them nothing but love and attention.”

Click on each square in the mosaic for more information on the featured pair.

The nonprofit, no-kill shelter regularly brings in 30 to 50 animals from its main location in Anna, Illinois. Director Donna Hawk pulls animals from shelters where they might have been euthanized if not adopted.

Hawk often takes animals in poor condition, with hopes of rehabilitating them for new families. Dogs with heartworm, injuries, or other pre-existing conditions, or senior dogs and cats.

“If I have to be that shelter that can only take in the perfect dogs,” Hawk previously told Patch, “then I don’t want to be one.”

Care for animals in less-than-perfect condition can be costly, and the shelter welcomes monetary donations. Volunteers are also invited to help walk and care for the dogs while they’re at Cache Creek. Children can volunteer beginning at the age of 12, if accompanied by an adult. High school students can notch community service hours at the shelter or its adoption events.

The pets are available for viewing at Cache Creek, 1003 Star Ln., New Lenox. You can also find them on Facebook, or donate to fulfill their Amazon Wishlist.