C.A.R.E. has Valentine’s cards to help save dogs

If your sweetheart loves animals, here’s a Valentine’s Day treat sure to spark a smile.

For $5 per card, the local nonprofit C.A.R.E., or Clifford’s Army Rescue Extravaganza, will address the envelope, add the postage and mail your Valentine greeting to whoever’s on your mind.

The cover photo of the card features 14 dogs that are looking for forever homes. C.A.R.E. has about 25 rescue dogs right now that need permanent owners. Founded in 2011, the organization provides support for local homeless animals, increasing the chances for their rescue and adoption.

Founder and President Deb Hardin said C.A.R.E. helps a lot with medical expenses, taking in injured dogs, providing veterinary care, vaccines and ultimately, finding dogs permanent homes. C.A.R.E. also helps pet owners in the community who are unable to afford food and other needs. She doesn’t know exactly how many dogs they’ve helped.

“We help with so many other rescues. It’s a ton, I can tell you that,” she said. “We help our own. We help with the other rescues, and we also help the community.”

C.A.R.E. receives calls from pet owners in emergency situations, such as the dog that has been hit by a car and the owner doesn’t have money to pay veterinary expenses. Hardin said C.A.R.E. tries to help whenever it can.

“It’s been a journey, and we’re still on that journey. The hope is that one day we’re not needed, that they all have homes and are all safe,” she said.

Orders for Valentine’s Day cards are accepted through Feb. 9. Send $5 per card to P.O. Box 370, Earl, NC 28038 or send money via PayPal to Cliffordsarmy@gmail.com. Include the name and address for each card recipient.

Cards are also available at an adoption event from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 9 at Tractor Supply, 1665 E. Dixon Blvd., Shelby. If you’re interested in adopting a pet, it’s an opportunity to see the dogs C.A.R.E. has available. The adoption process includes filling out an application and paying a $250 fee that covers veterinary expenses, vaccines and microchips.

“It’s a good way to come and meet the dogs and see if it fits what you’re looking for,” Hardin said. “You can kind of see the dog’s personality. You can ask questions, what we know about them.”

You can reach Wade Allen at 704-669-3331 and follow him on Twitter @wadeallenstar.