MARSHALL COUNTY, Ky.- If you're considering a new dog or cat for Christmas the Marshall County Humane Society might have a solution to help you decide. It's called Home for The Holidays Foster Event. 

The idea is for a family to foster an animal in their home from December 24-December 26. Director, Kristi Osmon said this is the first year they are trying to program and think it would be a win-win for everyone.

"It would make all of our holidays so much better just to know they're happy and safe with someone who will give them lots of love that day."

There are 14 dogs and 20 cats in the shelter now, a lower number than usual, but Osmon said there are some that were born there and spent their whole lives there.

"It's very difficult for a dog or cat to be in a facility like this their entire life," she said. "They don't learn the same skills an animal would when they're in a home."

She added that it's a good way to find out if families really are ready for the commitment of having a family pet, but it's also good for dogs and cats to socialize with families.

 "It helps with socialization which will ultimately help them get adopted," she said.

Obviously the ultimate goal would be for families to eventually adopt the animals after the holidays, but Osmon said even if they don't it's great exposure for animals that very rarely get seen.  

If you're interested, you can stop by the Marshall County Humane Society and fill out a foster application. Shelter workers will go over it, approve families, and find the best match. For more information you can click here.

Osmon told WPSD of other options if families looking to help out animals in need.

Sponsor and Animal: Through donations you can cover an animals adoption fee, spay or neuter, or everyday care.

Adoption Drive: December 1 at Wren's Pet Lodge, 501 Moors Camp Hwy in Benton, from 10 a.m- 2 p.m.

Pet and Family Photos with Santa: December 1 at Humane Society from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. For a $10 donation, you'll get all photos taken put onto a CD to take home.