CHARLESTON — West Law Firm is sponsoring the eighth annual Dogs for Christmas event starting Dec. 19.
The firm has sponsored the adoptions of 25 dogs at the Kanawha Charleston Humane Association. The firm is also donating $750 to KCHA for the animal shelter to use however they need.
Brooks West, attorney and founder of West Law Firm, said as an animal lover, he loves to do what he can to help animals.
Brooks West
| westinjurylawyers.com
"The first time we sponsored dogs was in 2014 but it wasn’t for Christmas," West said in an interview with The West Virginia Record. "In 2015 we did it a couple of times and then started the Christmas event for eight consecutive years. This year it’s 25 dogs for 25 people."
West said he adopted a dog from KCHA in 2013, Rosie.
"She’s a wonderful dog," West said. "Between me and my parents, we’ve adopted numerous dogs from there over the years. We love to help the animals and we love to help people. Doing this also helps the community."
West said the event is a great opportunity to help dogs in need to find a forever home, and, at the same time, give back to the community.
"As a personal injury lawyer, you have to advertise because everyone is doing it," West said. "It was a way to get our name out but in a way to be helpful to people instead of being annoying. We are just wanting to be helpful and it’s always appreciated by KCHA."
West said the event starts on Dec. 19 and is first-come, first-serve to the first 25 people who want to take advantage of the opportunity, which is for 25 adult dogs.
The law firm's sponsorship covers the entire cost of the adoption of the dogs, which includes vaccinations, spay/neuter, microchipping, deworming and flea/tick treatment.
The shelter opens at noon on Dec. 19, and the association encourages adopters to arrive when the shelter opens to ensure they are able to take advantage of the sponsored dog adoptions.
KCHA is dedicated to preserving animal lives through initiatives such as sheltering, adoption, foster care, spaying and neutering programs, cruelty prevention and community outreach.
As a trailblazer in progressive animal sheltering, KCHA is committed to eradicating unnecessary euthanasia.
By choosing to adopt an animal from KCHA, you not only welcome a new furry family member but also contribute to life-saving efforts.
Additionally, recent research suggests that adopting a dog can potentially enhance your own well-being, particularly if you reside alone.
A recent Swedish study, featured in the journal Scientific Reports, reveals that owning a dog can significantly lower the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality.
The findings indicate a 33% reduction in the risk of death for individuals living alone when they have a canine companion. Moreover, dog ownership is associated with a 36% decrease in the likelihood of cardiovascular-related deaths, along with an 11% lower chance of experiencing a heart attack compared to those living alone without dogs.
The study also underscores the positive impact of dog ownership on individuals residing in multi-family households. For more in-depth information on this study, you can refer to CNN's article exploring the link between living longer, healthier and happier with a dog.