WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — The Forsyth Humane Society is asking pet owners to help save cats and dogs without homes.

The #SAVEFURSYTH initiative is the humane society’s campaign to raise awareness on its save rate. In 2017, Forsyth County saved only 36% of its animals. At the end of 2020, it reported saving 75% of its animals. The agency plans to raise the bar to save 90% of its animals by 2023.

The humane society encourages pet owners and local businesses to use #SAVEFURSYTH on social media posts to spread the word. Executive Director Sarah Williamson was happy to see there was no spike in animal surrenders over the past year in Forsyth County.

“I think people are enjoying their animals in their home, and I think with all the forms of support and aid that have been available, people have been able to keep their animals,” she says.

For the month of February, the Forsyth Humane Society is running a pet calendar contest to raise money. Pet owners can enter a photo of their furry friend for $5. Others can vote on photos. Each vote costs $1. The top 12 winners at the end of the month win a spot in the 2022 #SAVEFURSYTH Pet Calendar. They also get a professional photoshoot with Desilu Photography.

People can also purchase the calendar starting March 1. For more information on how to enter, click here.