We keep hearing that the social distancing mandates meant to prevent the spread of the coronavirus changes our everyday lives.

And more and more things keep coming up to prove the point.

To wit: Last week, reporter Steve Schulwitz detailed the ways virus prevention has affected the Huron Humane Society and the Alpena County Animal Control shelter.

Animals can’t get COVID-19, but the people who care for them can. So the shelters have tried to reduce the number of animals they care for — the Humane Society is no longer accepting animals except in emergency situations — to reduce staff. But some staff is still needed, as are supplies for more thoroughly cleaning the shelters and feeding and caring for the animals that remain.

And the animals still being born.

“We depend on donations to get us through and to help pay for employees, medicine, insurance, utilities, and other necessities,” Huron Humane Society President Cindy Johnson told Schulwitz. “Nothing has changed in the amount of money we have to pay out to keep the doors open.”

Don’t forget our furry friends. If you’re able, give to a local shelter.

(THE ALPENA NEWS)