MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—The Marion Area Humane Society is offering local families a chance to give a shelter dog the gift of a home this season through its annual Holiday Sleepover Program.
The program invites community members to temporarily take a shelter dog into their home for the holidays, providing the animal with warmth, love, and a break from the stressful kennel environment.
“Even a short-term stay has a lifelong impact on a shelter dog,” said a spokesperson for the Humane Society. “For a dog who’s been waiting, wondering, and wishing… this small act could mean everything.”
Holiday sleepovers are crucial for the dogs, as they help reduce stress and anxiety, improve socialization skills, and provide valuable information about the dog’s personality that can help staff find a permanent “forever home” after the holidays.
Interested families can participate in required meet-and-greets on Dec. 17, 18, 19, and 20. Dec. 20 is the final day for dogs to be picked up for the program.
How to Participate
To ensure a successful match, all participants must fill out a foster application, complete a family meet-and-greet, and bring any current dogs in the home for an introduction with the sleepover dog.
- Meet & Greet Hours: Wednesday-Friday, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. (Note: The Humane Society is closed Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday).
- Return Date: Dogs are scheduled to be returned on Friday, Jan. 2, 2026, from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., with the option to extend the stay if the foster family chooses to adopt.
The Humane Society, located at 2264 Richland Road in Marion, encourages anyone who has considered fostering to participate in this meaningful seasonal opportunity.