Patch Pets: Pooches

For almost 60 years, North Shore Animal League America has been committed to saving, nurturing and adopting animals.

"We rescue from everywhere — overcrowded shelters, unwanted litters, puppy mills and owners no longer able to care for their pets," said shelter manager Anthony Angioletti.

Through those years, the Animal League estimates the shelter has saved nearly 1 million dogs, cats, puppies and kittens. Still, there are plenty more left in need of adoption.

Dogs like 'Charlie Girl' and Holly, who are waiting for a happy home.

"These girls are almost two years old, but will make great pets," Angioletti said, explaining that while many of the people who visit the Animal League look for puppies, for some, dogs like Charlie Girl and Holly might be even more ideal.

"They come already housebroken, with all their vaccinations, are spayed and neutered and good with older kids," he said, stressing there are plenty of other reason to adopt these pets.

"Especially Holly, she's a sweetheart," Angioletti said, his words echoed by many of the volunteers working at the shelter.

"Holly's my girl actually... simply the best," said one volunteer. Another worker called her "cuddly and energetic."

Though for Angioletti, there was also something about Charlie Girl that made her stand out from the rest as well.

"It's something in her face... She's just a dog in need of love — they all are," he said.

To find out how to adopt Charlie Girl or Holly visit North Shore Animal League America any day between 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. at their facility located at 25 Davis Ave. in Port Washington.