Islip shelter animals showered with gifts

Nearly 100 animals at the Islip Animal Shelter will feel an extra boost of holiday spirit this year as Long Islanders donated twice the amount of toys and treats during the annual toy drive compared with last year.

During the second annual toy drive held Saturday, each of the animals had a holiday stocking that hung over their cages as charitable neighbors dropped by and filled them up with goodies.

More than 200 gallons of toys for dogs and cats were collected in the initiative driven by Live. Love. Bark, the shelter’s new nonprofit volunteer organization. The animals will also be feasting this holiday with more than 300 pounds of dry food and 20 gallons of canned food. About $350 collected in cash will go toward purchasing items from the shelter’s wish list.

“When our residents come together to donate to our animals, especially during the holiday season, it is truly heartwarming,” Islip Town Councilwoman Trish Bergin Weichbrodt said in a statement. “Everyone deserves to be happy for the holidays and that includes all of our animals waiting for their forever homes.”

To make a donation to Islip Animal Shelter, call 631-224-5660.