May is National Pet Month, and to celebrate, the Georgian Triangle Humane Society (GTHS) is hosting its first-ever youth photo contest.
The Humane Education Program at the GTHS is asking children to submit a photo of themselves with their pet to showcase the joy their furry friends bring into their lives every day.
“We want to recognize the importance of the human-animal bond,” said Karen Marsh, the Humane Education Coordinator at GTHS. “Especially now, in times of isolation, there are so many positive mental and physical health benefits of having pets.”
The contest closes on May 18 at noon. The winner will be randomly selected the following morning, and will receive a $25 electronic gift card to either Apple or Google Play.
Walsh said children are encouraged to get as “creative, cute and cuddly” as they can. The contest is open to all pets, not just dogs and cats.
“All living beings ... can experience love and share love with us,” said Walsh.
Each month, the GTHS plans to release a new theme for the interactive youth contests, which will run until the end of the year.
“It’s about keeping connected during isolation,” said Marsh. “We want to celebrate the mutual benefit that pets and people bring to one another.”
In consideration of the coronavirus outbreak, the Humane Education Program is in the process of moving to an online platform in order to help youth continue to learn from home.
For full contest rules visit the Humane Education Program’s website.