ASPEN — It is the beginning of a new year, a welcomed time to stop by the Aspen Animal Shelter and help a pet find a forever home.

The Aspen Animal Shelter takes in all animals.According to its website, “Aspen Animal Shelter, a privatized, for-profit, self-sustaining, no-kill shelter which is primarily supported by income created via The Aspen Boarding Kennel. The shelter provides sanctuary for the homeless dogs and cats of Aspen, Pitkin County and beyond.”

Many rescued dogs have come from a Texas kill shelter and are “saved” from a death sentence. The shelter also rescues pets that were abandoned, in a hoarding situation or given to them. The shelter has taken in many dogs, cats, birds, and other valley animals. Currently there are about 13 adoptable dogs and five adoptable cats, there are also a few birds.

The shelter has large outdoor areas so that the dogs can run around and exercise in fresh air. All dogs boarding there also get to run around in these outdoor areas. It also offers the ability to “rent” a dog for a day and walk him or her around outside and give it an experience away from the the kennel. People can also take the dogs out for a while and walk them near the shelter.

The Aspen Animal Shelter cats have a room where there are beds, toys and play structures for them to roam around on. Yet visitors can go into the room with the cats and play with them. People can also ask to see specific cats and have alone time with them in another room.

If you are not looking for a dog or cat there are also birds and a snake. All the birds are in comfy cages, and music is played all day to make them feel more comfortable. The birds love company and some can even talk. All birds are friendly but are asked to not be touched or played with through the bars.

Aspen Animal Shelter also lets anyone board their pets, and it also offers grooming for pets to keep them looking nice and clean. The shelter has a small store to add to everything. In the store there are foods, toys, clothing (for people and pets), treats, and more.

Aspen Animal Shelter explains,  “Each homeless pet is neutered, vaccinated and micro-chipped prior to adoption. Volunteers are always welcomed, and encouraged, to walk the dogs, brush the cats, or even wash the dirty bowls.”

To volunteer, call the shelter in advance. The animal shelter is opened from 7a.m. to 6p.m. everyday of the week. For more information go onto www.dogsaspen.com, call (920) 544-0206 or email [email protected].