There are many adoption “happy tails” from the Natchez-Adams County Humane Society.

Pictures of adopted pets and their new families are featured in the 2011 calendar that goes on sale Friday. Calendars will be sold at the Art Show/Benefit for the Humane Society at Natchez Fine Framing and Art Gallery, 518 Main St. between 5-8 p.m.

Since moving to Natchez several years ago, my interest in photography and watercolor painting was rekindled.

I became a volunteer with NACHS and began photographing animals that were available for adoption.

Every other week a group of dedicated volunteers holds animals and we take nearly 1,000 photos to obtain the best pictures of the 25 or 30 cats and dogs to be featured.

I’ve been amazed at how the animal’s personality has “spoken” to so many of you through the photos. The animals are both playful and beautiful and that somehow is transmitted through the camera lens.

You’ve seen the photos in area businesses and on our new website (www.natchezpetadoptions.org).

There have been nearly 30,000 “hits” on the website since it was launched in March of this year. NACHS adoptions have increased significantly as a result of using technology that makes looking for your new best friend a bit easier.

Unfortunately, it is not all happy tails. There is a depressing, dark side to the story as well. Far too many cats and dogs are euthanized each month.

The city and county only provide limited support and the current shelter building is in such despicable shape that it puts off both prospective adoptive families and volunteers.

It is imperative that the new facility is built in the coming year to facilitate adoption of animals that must otherwise be euthanized.

We have deeply appreciated your donations for day-to-day operations and the building fund, despite the down economy.

I hope you will continue supporting NACHS by attending the art show and buying a calendar.

All proceeds from the sale of calendars, photos and my paintings will be donated to benefit NACHS animals.

If you can’t join us Friday at the show, please visit the website to place your calendar order or to look for your next pet. Calendars will also be sold at Natchez Fine Framing and Art Gallery, Darby’s and Natchez Veterinary Clinic through the holiday season.

Kathy Fitch is the NACHS photographer and is a member of its board of directors. This is the first showing of her photos and watercolor paintings.