On the Sixth Day of Christmas: Take Home a Furry Friend

Did yesterday's donation to a local charity leave you wanting to do even more good this holiday season? Give a gift no one will ever forget-- the gift of a four-legged best friend. Adopt from a local shelter and you will be doing both the owner and the fur ball a favor, as they will both have someone special to cuddle up with by the fireplace this Christmas.

The only problem is the pet owner must be there to fill out the application-- so pick up your friend, tell him or her you are going on a surprise trip to pick out a special gift, and drive to the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter at 3320 Beltagh Ave. in Wantagh.

The shelter is offering free adoptions until Jan. 15, so all this will cost you is $2.50 for a dog license. Cats have no fee. Your friend must be at least 21 years old to fill out an application.

Once a certain dog or cat steals your friend's heart, you will know exactly what to wrap under the tree on the big day: Pet supplies from a Levittown pet store!

Here are some options around town:

Steve's Pet Food Supplies & Dog Grooming

Support a local business and get friendly, hands-on service from veterinarian-recommended Steve. Stock up on dog or cat food to keep your friend's new pet satisfied, and offer to take the mutt back for a nice grooming session on his or her way home from the shelter.

Location: 178 Center Lane

Phone: 516-579-0258

Petco

In addition to picking up a cozy little bed, matching leash and collar set, cute food and water bowls or a personalized name tag, you can also have the new pet trained here.

Location: 2965 Hempstead Tpke.

Phone: 516-731-9344

www.petco.com

Petsmart

Another local branch of a popular pet store chain, Petsmart offers doggy daycare and boarding-- but hopefully your friend isn't willing to hand over his or her new pet already! Put together a "doggy bag" with assorted treats, or pick out some cat toys for a content kitten.

Location: 3545 Hempstead Tpke.

Phone: 516-731-2592

www.petsmart.com