Pups in the Ruff – The Northern Student

Story by Rebecca Carvell

Photos by Stacey Kaslon

It’s getting warm out and that means we are going to want things to do to enjoy the weather. One great idea is to visit the Humane Society here in Bemidji.

Salvatore, a labrador retriever and pit bull terrier mix. — Salvatore, Labrador Retriever-Pit Bull Terrier mix.

Cody Mickle and his girlfriend, Dina Lutz, go every week. They started going during the summer of 2015. As time has passed, Mickle has seen five or six other college students’ visit as well and when students go in, they can play with the animals. Mickle has felt less stress since he started playing with all the dogs. Students have to take a class to become able to feed, walk, and groom the dogs. Mickle has taken the class and has been told the humane society faculty does this because of all the different habits and personalities of the animals.

Students are able to show up and start playing with the animals right away and Mickle suggests that other students do this. Their vision for their business, Great River Rescue, is committed to serving the best interest of the animals they strive to protect. The Rescue has both dogs and cats, and on their website they even have a cat-cam. The website also shows which animals you can adopt and visiting users are also able to donate money to Great River Rescue. For more information, visit the website at www.greatriverrescue.com, and visit the shelter during their open hours.