CHERAW - When Joyce McGirt-Hickey of Cheraw decided to throw her husband, Johnny, a surprise birthday party on Oct. 24; he had no idea what very unusual gifts he would receive. Instead of bringing your typical presents, McGirt-Hickey suggested that the guests bring bags or boxes of pet food for the honoree, which would be donated to the Paws and Claws Humane Society in Chesterfield. "I thought this idea might catch on for others and is something that they may be interested in doing to help other organizations in need. We collected over 545 pounds of dog and cat food to donate to Paws and Claws, as a result of Johnny's party. This is the first time we have ever done this and it is something we would like to continue to do if possible," said McGirt-Hickey. "Joyce had a wonderful idea and we are glad we could help. I am thankful to have lived another year and also thank all of our guests for their donations," said Hickey. According to Paws and Claws, the organization is a completely volunteer organization. Their goal is to assist the Animal Control Officer in improving conditions and situations for the animals under his control. In addition, Paws and Claws volunteers work out of the Chesterfield

County Animal Shelter on the weekends to adopt out, administer preventative disease shots, and provide assistance and care to the animals. Frank Laney, who was hired by the Chesterfield County Sheriff's Department in November of 2008 to manage the shelter said, "In spite of some of the issues the shelter was faced with last year, the Sheriff's office is ensuring the everyday maintenance and the adoption portion of the shelter. We added a new roof on the cat and the dog buildings this year, which both, the Chesterfield County Sheriff's Department and Paws and Claws Humane Society shared the cost of that project. The Paws and Claws volunteers come on the weekends to work with the adoptions, feed and water the animals and clean the pens, too," Laney added. To donate items or for more information about Paws and Claws or to learn how to adopt a pet, call the Chesterfield County Animal Shelter at (843) 623-3585.