Peoria, Ill. (WMBD) — This Saturday, the Peoria Humane Society is gearing up to host a unique event aimed at combining relaxation with feline companionship. The organization will be holding a kitty-yoga class at its facility, promising participants a day of enjoyment while also supporting a charitable cause.
Kitty Yanko, director of the Peoria Humane Society, described the event as a blend of yoga and the playful energy of kittens and cats. The inspiration for such an event, according to Yanko, came from popular social media trends showcasing yoga sessions with various animals like rabbits, goats, and puppies.
“With this time of the year seeing an influx of kittens at our center, we saw an opportunity to have fun and also promote adoption,” Yanko explained.
The initiative to promote adoption is especially poignant in the wake of increased challenges faced by pet owners during and post-COVID-19. Many individuals have struggled to provide adequate nutrition for their pets, prompting the society to request donations of dry dog and cat food of any brand.
“We’re assisting local food pantries due to the growing number of people reaching out for help to feed their pets,” Yanko noted.
Highlighting the positive impact of kitty-yoga on the community, Yanko shared a recent success story of “Heart breaker,” a feline adoptee rescued from a severe hoarding situation. “She’s thriving here, and is often the first to greet visitors in our cat room,” Yanko added warmly.
Participation in the kitty-yoga class requires a fee of $20, which includes the option to donate 15 pounds of dog or cat food to support animals in need through local food pantries. Additionally, the Humane Society is running a special promotion offering pet adoptions for $25 during the event.
For those unable to attend the event but still wishing to contribute, donations of pet food can be dropped off at any time. The organization also hosts “Wish-List Wednesday” on its Facebook page, where community members can purchase needed items, and maintains an Amazon wish list for direct donations.
To secure a spot in the upcoming kitty-yoga session or for more information, interested individuals are encouraged to contact Kitty Yanko via email at [email protected].
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