Yankton Humane Society launches ‘Barktoberfest’ campaign

SIOUX FALLS S.D. (KELO) — The Heartland Humane Society in Yankton is launching a new effort to raise $100,000.

Called “Barktoberfest” the Heartland Humane Society says money raised will benefit both shelter animals and community programming.

Strategic plans include bite prevention programming to young youth, no cost microchipping clinics in Vermillion and Yankton, pet food pantry, stray animal intake, owner animal surrender, emergency placement for agency partners, and Pet the Stress at over 25 agency partners. In addition, the shelter rehomes an average 80 dogs and cat per month.

Volunteers have set a goal of recruiting five new foster homes during the month to help care for the pet-friendly shelter animals it will serve this winter.

“Fostering is a cost-free way of donating,” shelter director Kelli Feilmeier said. “With the winter months approaching, weather impacts the ability for volunteers to travel which means getting dogs and cats out of kennels regularly during the day is more challenging. Foster volunteers can help this burden by taking home dogs or cats, especially when inclement weather is in the forecast.”

Donations are accepted throughout the month of September, with special events and prizes for each week.

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