Last year at MHS, students and staff saw many changes within the school, some being controversial and others beneficial to the community. Along with Syosset High School, MHS has started the Dog Rescue Club and it has become one of the most popular clubs in the school.

Founded by MHS graduate Jenna Colucci, the club works along with Ruff House Rescue Shelter to grow and to learn what members can do for helping dogs.
“When I heard about the club last year, I thought to myself ‘that is an awesome club, why didn’t I think of it?’ So when I was asked to take it over it wasn’t even a thought.  I have rescue dogs myself, and helping animals is a passion of mine so it just fits,” club adviser Ms. Christina Sabbiondo said. This is Ms. Sabbiondo’s first year as adviser of the club, after the adviser last year had to step down.

Members of the club spend their time volunteering, fundraising, and collecting treats and toys for the dogs. For example, when the club began to learn about the adoption process, they discovered  how expensive everything can be for these shelters. The club collects items such as towels, treats, toys, blankets, and more. These items benefit the shelter and help to take care of the dogs.
Additionally, the club volunteers at adoption events and sets up stations where people can learn more about adoption and hopefully attract some potential adopters. The adoption events tend to be a favorite with the members. “Being able to see first hand the dogs we are trying to help get adopted and to see people excited to take them home and make that dog a part of their family is definitely going to be the most rewarding,” said Ms. Sabbiondo.
Moreover, the club has various groups come and talk to the club members about what their organizations do. Some of these rescues include Ruff House Rescue, Grateful Greyhounds, and Paws of War. Paws of War is a rescue that helps military veterans adopt and train service dogs.
During the holiday season, the club also has fundraisers planned. They put together a toy and treat drive, which is when students can see dog house shaped boxes around the school. Shelters tend to go through toys and treats at an extremely fast rate because dogs who seem happy will be adopted faster. In the mind of someone who is adopting a dog, a happy dog will most likely be friendly and sweet.
After the holiday season, the club plans to start off the new year with some bake sales, a meeting dedicated to making dog toys out of tennis balls, learning to how to make dog treats for a donation, and an “Adopt Don’t Shop” campaign. This campaign will help educate people about why adoption can be a better option than buying a dog. The date for this has yet to be determined.

The Dog Rescue Club has done much to help shelter dogs in need during the holiday season. “The goals for everything we do revolve around fundraising and raising awareness,” Ms. Sabbiondo said. “For our members, it’s learning about giving back and how to educate others on the importance of adoption.”