CHESAPEAKE, Va. (WAVY) — Andrew and Jennifer Duhe have dedicated a lot of time at Chesapeake Animal Services. They’ve been volunteering at the adoption center for over a year together. 

“We have fun and it doesn’t just help the animals. I think it really helps us. It’s like a cheap, cost-effective alternative to marriage therapy,” Jennifer said jokingly.

While the couple does often tend to the animals at the adoption center, they happen to be pet owners too. They’re currently grieving the recent loss of one of their dogs.

“We’re still kind of in the coping phase of losing, kind of unexpectedly a little bit, one of our own dogs,” Jennifer said. “I’ve had a kind of a hard time dealing with that.”

Still in bereavement, Andrew had an idea for Jennifer’s 40th birthday he knew was sure to lift her spirits up.

“My wife’s love for animals is really, I’d say above and beyond,” Andrew said. “Trying to find something that was meaningful and practical and everything. And as much work as we do here, it kind of hit close to home for us. We just wanted to really do something great and also to show how wonderful she is as a person too.”

In honor of Jennifer’s 40th birthday, Andrew decided to cover the adoption fees of all 40 animals at Chesapeake Animal Services.

“I had gotten with Miss Casey, the volunteer coordinator, and I initially asked how many kennels we had. Conveniently, there are actually 40 dog kennels, so I thought it was fitting,” he said. “40 kennels and a 40th birthday, they went hand in hand.”

The adoption fees of the 40 animals totals over four thousand dollars. Jennifer said no other gift would be as meaningful.

“It is so nice to know that he just understood in my heart,” Jennifer said. “That’s what I value most, you know, and he’s supportive enough to even do a gesture like that, which was very big. And it just really meant a lot.”

The generous gift is one that will keep on giving. Chesapeake Animal Services said 10 adoptions have already been paid for. The Duhes just hope the covered costs assist in the pets finding a home quicker.

“I wish more people would come in. I just want them all to have homes,” Jennifer said.

If interested in more details on how to adopt from Chesapeake Animal Services, click here. For details on how to participate in their ‘Snout and About’ program and other volunteer opportunities, click here.