INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — Santa paid an early visit to the Humane Society of Vero Beach & Indian River County.
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In the past six or seven years, Santa has taken photos with cats, dogs, and even chickens and snakes, according to Volunteer Coordinator Milissa Ferrer. Approximately 70 families took part in the photo shoot with Santa during the two-day event this weekend.
A portion of the proceeds went back to the Humane Society.
Lisa Ioppolo brought her cat Calley to see Santa for the first time.
“That’s cute, they’re both cute,” said Ioppolo about the photos. “That went better than I thought.”
Baxter, one of the dogs to have his photos taken with Santa, gave the jolly ol’ elf a kiss.
“We did this last year; Baxter’s new,” said Valerie Harrison.
During the photo shoots, squeaky and feather toys were used for both dogs and cats.
Candice Silver, of Photographic Memories Photography out of Palm Bay, was photographing families with their pets again this year. This year though, Sean Silver, of the photography company, played Santa.
“Gotta have a squeaky toy; it gets the dogs to look and put their ears up,” said Candice.
Last year, the Humane Society’s Tim Swift played Santa, but he is allergic to cats. Sean filled in for him part way after he had to switch off because of the allergy.
Two dogs, DuPont and Daisy, even showed up in Christmas outfits to be photographed.
“It’s a great thing they do – helping animals,” said Steve Huber, DuPont and Daisy’s human.
Nani, a dog that was born at the Humane Society from the seizure of the 75 Chihuahuas and a pug, was also photographed with Santa on Sunday. Nani found a home with Phaedra Kohler, Director of Customer & Volunteer Services.
“We have quite a few new people, which is awesome,” said Phaedra Kohler.