T’was long before Christmas when a sleigh arrived at the Foothills Humane Society in Columbus on Saturday, Nov. 12. A “right jolly old elf” parked his vehicle in the shelter pavilion and “what to his wondering eyes did appear” but dogs of all sizes and breeds, and owners who “knew in a moment he must be St. Nick.” 

So up to his lap the dogs they flew, to nestle by ones, and twos, and even threes. On occasion, even a human or two snuggled in tight. A camera clicked and clicked and moments were saved for holiday cards and posterity as one of three events in the Fall Fest Open House.

No pet was naughty, all sat nice, despite the Variety Tag Sale and the commotion of one shopper loading a pick-up with much of the antique furniture to be had.

There were brief moments of distraction as good cookin’ aroma wafted over from the six contestants in the Chili Cook-off, but no pose was missed, no bark made, even as Richard Wallahora took first place acclaim with his “Emily’s Famous Chili Modified” recipe.

At end of day, many reliable witnesses heard Santa exclaim before he drove out of sight, “Merry Christmas to all, and donations make the difference until they all have a home.”

– article submitted by Vincent Verrecchio