Over the years, Amanda Huber has seen two things -- plenty of pets and various blessing boxes for people around Putnam County.

And, Huber, who owns Kuddles Kennels, recently decided to do a first in Putnam County -- create a blessing box for pets. 

Huber said she had seen a lot of talk on various chatter pages where people were asking for pet food, while she was waiting for her husband to build a box for her. 

"It hurt my heart to think of them not having much or maybe none. So I thought now is the time. As we all know, the price of pet food has gone up as has everything else. I saw a plastic box that held outside things and I thought oh my gosh yes, that's what I needed. I purchased one and told the idea on my Facebook page and my Kuddles family came through and filled the box," Huber said told The Putnam County Post. 

And the need was great, as the box was almost empty in a day. 

"We had several cars come in. It made my heart warm, and I was shocked. I had thought maybe someone took more than they should, but thinking back of the amount of cars that came in, I think people took what they needed. Knowing some pets were being fed well that night was the best feeling. I have had Kuddles 21 years now, and I love it at the same, maybe more than when I started," Huber said. 

This is not the first time Huber and her "Kuddles Family" have joined forces to help the community.

"At Christmas, I ask my Kuddles Kennels family if they will bring pet toys for my husband and I to take to the shelter on Christmas day and then we go help feed them their special Christmas meal. It has become a tradition and we go with Tammy and Terri Easham. And then we pass out to the toys to the dogs since they are there with no families that day," Huber said. 

Huber said this venture is important to her because she sees the pets that are treated great. 

"Their owners really take care of them and trust me to while they are away," she said.

But, she admits she knows there is another side to it, as well.

"I know not all pets are being treated the same and it's a shame. Doing this as long as I have, you have a special bond with these furry friends and want to be there for them and this is one way I feel I can help," Huber said. 

And, the word and boxes are spreading rapidly, according to Huber, who has her box set up right outside her business, which is located at 2227 E. County Road 1100 South, Cloverdale. 

"The Hendershots have offered to put a box at their business and Brittney Overshiner has a boutique in Greencastle and she has offered as well. People can get so involved and help my dream come true to have them all over like you see for people," Huber said. 

She said people or various civic groups can donate food and she will get it distributed out. 

"We have learned to divide the bigger bags of food into zip lock bags, but we can do that. My heart is racing thinking what Putnam County can accomplish together with this project. Anyone can come at any time and get what they need, there are no judgements here. I have heard some people say why do they have pets if they can't afford them. Many people have children and can't afford them, but they find a way and these babies are family to us," Huber said. 

Anyone wanting to get involved, make a donation or put up a box is asked to reach Huber at 765-506-2585, Kuddles Kennel at 765-795-5519 or reach out to Huber through Facebook. 

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