By JOYANNA LOVE/ Senior Staff Writer

Convenience and supporting the Chilton County Animal Shelter are the focus of a new mini store set up in the shelter lobby.

“It’s a way to get more money into the shelter and help the community when they come in to adopt a pet,” board member Kristi Hyche said.

The store currently offers doggy diapers, food, leashes and pet themed home décor signs.  Hyche said plans are to expand the number of items as the idea catches on. Additional items could include T-shirts, bowls and other accessories. All procceeds go into the shelter’s general fund to ensure animals have the necessary vaccines and medical treatment to be adopted or sent to a rescue.

Hyche said the shelter also wanted to make getting items for their new pets convenient for owners by eliminating the need to make a stop on the way home.

Prices range from $5 to $15.

The humane society is having a special on cat adoptions. Hyche said the normal adoption fee is waived, if the adopter donates a 25 bag of cat litter.

Dogs are available for adoption with a fee of $125 for those less than 6 years old, and a fee of $50 for those 6 years and older.

The shelter is in the process of raising funds to buy new kennel cages to replace the aged ones. To donate, visit https://www.youcaring.com/chiltoncountyhumanesociety-872277.

The Chilton County Animal Shelter is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.  For more information, contact the animal shelter at 205-755-9170 .