Things are always tough for abandoned or orphaned animals, who can have their lives turned around by a good home. If residents are considering an act of kindness this holiday season, they can look to the Animal Haven for an opportunity to rescue an orphaned cat or dog.

Now in its 60th year, The Animal Haven is a private, no-kill shelter where people can humanely relinquish orphaned animals for a small donation. The shelter takes a kind and humane approach to its cats and dogs, searching to find them good homes and ensuring that they have all the proper vaccinations.

On Saturday, Dec. 20, the shelter will have its annual open house from 12 to 4 p.m., showcasing the animals up for adoption and educating the general public about its mission. Refreshments will be served, and a holiday raffle will take place at 3 p.m.

The shelter has also adopted a special new holiday initiative to help save on energy costs and become a little greener. They have been offering energy-efficient doggy doors, which are solid and insulated. They don't lose heat from flapping, and are resistant to chewing.

However, the shelter is also facing some tough times due to the current economic crisis. Many shelters statewide have been faced with people who are giving up their pets, unable to afford the cost of caring for them.

"We're getting a lot of people who are moving, and downsizing their current living situation," explained kennel manager Judy Gunn. She said that some people were moving from a two-bedroom house to a smaller apartment, which would force them to give up a pet due to space constrictions. Foreclosures could also loom as another problem, leaving people unable to care for their pets.

"We're getting more and more calls...I think all shelters are seeing that," said kennel assistant Jason Gray.

In addition to being painful for the families who have to turn their pets over to the shelter, a cycle of moving between homes and shelters can also be damaging for the animals, who benefit the most from a permanent and stable home.

"The more times the animal comes back, the harder it is on them," explained Gray. Still, he remained optimistic and hoped that things would turn around.

"It's affected us a little bit here," he said. "It's been a little slow, but not devastating."

Despite the occasional struggles, life at Animal Haven has brought its joys to the employees, especially when they are able to see a dog or cat taken home by a good family.

"It's very rewarding...you're always happy when they get a home," said Gray. "Sometimes animals are easier to deal with than people."

The Animal Haven is located at 89 Mill Road. For more information or to make a donation, call (203) 239-2641.