The Howl, a new local educational and advocacy website focused on pets, is now live at thehowl.co.
“It’s the only local resource of everything going on in Chattanooga that has to do with pets,” said Lookout Valley resident Dana Shavin, who co-founded the website with Phyllis Mescon of Signal Mountain. “People will not realize how much they needed this site until they see it.”
A local artist who’s donated works for animal related fundraisers and volunteered in various capacities in the animal community, Shavin said she felt the need to do more.
In October she launched The Howl, which serves as a central place to find out about all the animal related fundraisers in town, get advice on pet care, read about pet-friendly area trails and businesses, and check out additional lifestyle content directed toward animal-lovers. The website provides links to local shelters and rescue organizations for those looking for a new four-legged friend, and also connects site visitors to other pet related resources in the area.
“I love animals and wanted to bring together the animal community,” Shavin said.
The site is about more than just cats and dogs – there are also stories related to wildlife rehabilitation and humane removal of pesky critters.
“It’s all about treating animals well,” explained Shavin, a published writer who creates much of the content for the site, along with gathering submitted material from local experts and pet parents. “I’m looking to keep content fresh and changing.”
In the long term, she said she hopes to sell the website template to people in other cities to create their own hometown Howl sites.
Visit The Howl at thehowl.co, or on Facebook and Instagram by searching for Howl Chattanooga.
Email Emily Crisman at ecrisman@timesfreepress.com.