As COVID-19 has devastated small businesses and local charities, animals in need actually have seen a silver lining, as residents forced into an extended shut-in have sought out companionship more than ever. Volunteers were happy to report the incredible turnover of rescues.

“People are really crawling out of the woodwork to adopt and even foster,” said Sherri Steeger of Homeless Paws NJ (homelesspaws.org).