Digs for Dogs program assisting local pet owners

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- As the temperature starts to rise in the coming summer months, pet owners are encouraged to prioritize the health of their outdoor pets.

To help these animals, the St. Joseph animal shelter is continuing its "Digs for Dogs" program, which provides shelter and suitable environments for outdoor pets.

"Over the years, we've probably helped hundreds of dogs," St. Joseph Animal Services Manager, Holly Bowie said. "Not always with the dog house because the funding for that is limited, but in other ways.

"Whether it's providing a tether or sometimes we'll assist them in repairing a dog house. The officers have what we call toolkits where they can go out and if the dog house needs a little bit of repair, they can provide that."

The program is accepting new or used dog houses and donations to provide to dogs in need of outdoor shelter.