Locked in Fur Love: Claudia's Story

For Claudia, supporting the Humane Society of Sheboygan County isn't just about fundraising-it's about giving back to the shelter that has given her so much love throughout her life. "So many of the fur babies I've had in my lifetime have come from the shelter," Claudia shares. "This is a great way to say thanks and provide for the current fur babies waiting for their humans."

Every day, Claudia sees the faces of the animals who arrive at the shelter-some lost, some abandoned, all waiting for someone to love them. "My heart breaks for them," she says. "If they had a human somewhere, that animal has got to feel so lost. And for the ones who have been at the shelter for an extreme amount of time… the shelter is designed to be a short stop, not a place to live. I wish I could get each and every one of them a home."

Claudia believes deeply in making sure every shelter pet feels loved while they wait. "The staff and volunteers do an incredible job, but it's important for the animals to feel love so they don't become isolated," she explains. "We want them to stay expressive and relatable to their future humans, whether it's a reunion or a brand-new home."

Through fundraising, Claudia hopes to not only raise money but also awareness. "The needs of the shelter are ongoing," she says. "People can contribute at any time, not just when there's a special event." For Claudia, pets are more than just animals-they're family. "I don't have kids, so they are truly my fur babies. I give them my heart," she says. Her husband, Chris, and their two beloved cats, Miles and Jameson, are always there to greet her, comfort her, and make her smile. "They help me forget a bad day, heal from grief, and give me reasons to laugh. I love making their days special-whether it's through treats, new toys, or visits with Nana."

She knows firsthand how deeply animals can connect with people. One of her most memorable moments was with her shelter cat, Horatio (also known as Tio). "When my dad passed away, I was heartbroken. I was lying in bed, and Horatio came to me. He knew I was sad-I could feel it. As I was telling him why, he placed his paw in my hand, like he was holding it, and licked a tear from my face. He got me."

To the shelter pets still waiting for their families, Claudia offers reassurance. "Every time I'm at the shelter, I talk to them. I ask how their day is going, and I tell them their human is coming soon. To be patient. To enjoy the volunteers and staff, because they love them, too. That they won't always be living in a cage or kennel. And while they are, we will give them the best we can."

For Claudia, love isn't reserved for just one day a year. "Some people call Valentine's Day a Hallmark holiday-I don't care. If it gives me another opportunity to spread love, I'll take it. But we shouldn't need a holiday to do that."