Volunteers Provide Comfort for County Shelter Animals with Handmade Beds

At the County's Carlsbad animal shelter, a volunteer group known as Kennel Comforters gathers the first weekend of every month to make cozy, handmade beds for shelter animals.

Volunteers form an assembly line to cut, stuff and sew washable beds of all shapes and sizes-from small round ones for cats to larger flat mats for dogs.

The group began partnering with the County about 15 years ago and now provides beds for both the Carlsbad and Bonita shelters, as well as other animal care facilities across the region.

On a typical weekend, they make between 65 and 70 beds. Volunteers take donated fabric home in advance to prep, so that by the time they arrive at the shelter, they can focus on assembly.

The group originally made only small, round beds for cats but has since expanded to meet the needs of shelter staff, creating flat mats and custom sizes as needed. Each bed is finished with a heart-shaped stitch-a detail that started as a personal touch and has since become the group's signature.

Longtime volunteer Carole Lee says the work helps her feel like she's making a difference.

"I would love to take them all home," Lee said, "but since I can't, I make them a bed."

Kennel Comforters welcomes volunteers of all ages and skill levels. While sewing requires experience with a machine, there are plenty of other ways to help-from cutting and prepping fabric to stuffing and organizing supplies. Even kids can help out.

The County's Department of Animal Services provides space and support at the Carlsbad shelter, including a dedicated storage closet for supplies between sessions.

For more information or to get involved, visit Kennel Comforters' Facebook page.

You can also support local animals in need by donating to the Spirit Fund to help provide free veterinary care, or by volunteering at a County animal shelter.