The economic crisis has hit families hard nationwide. Pets are directly affected by their owners' lack of resources. The Humane Society is answering the call to help with a free spay promotion - Howlin' for Halloween and a new pet food project - Pet Soup.

During October, the Humane Society will spay female cats in exchange for five cans of people food, which will in turn be donated to the Harvest Hope Food Bank.

Requirements for female cats: they must be seven years old at maximum; must weigh at least three pounds; rabies and distemper vaccines are required, but can be provided at the time of surgery for $18; animals must be in good health to obtain surgery and will be at the discretion of the attending veterinarian.

Apply at www.humanesc.org or stop by the Humane Society office 121 Humane Lane, Columbia, SC 29209.

The goal of the Humane Society's Pet Soup project is to keep pets in loving homes by providing assistance to those most at risk of losing their pets because of financial struggles. Starting Friday, November 7, pet owning clients of Harvest Hope Food Bank will be eligible to receive pet food (for dogs and cats). The Humane Society will set up shop in the Harvest Hope Food Bank parking lot every Friday. Applications for the Pet Soup project will be available at the Humane Society mobile van on Fridays.