June is Adopt a Shelter Cat Month
Cats and dogs can get along well if pet parents take the time for a graceful introduction. Searching for statistics about how many households own both a cat and a dog only returns vague results, but an estimate is right around 30% of dog owning households also have cats.
If you’ve thought about having a cat, now is the time!
Waives Cat Adoption Fees throughout June
Throughout the month of June cat adoptions will be available at no charge, a $60 value to the public.
“Simply put, cats are in need of homes,” said Kris Weiskopf, Animal Services Chief. “We have a number of family-friendly cats at both of our two facilities. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.”
The initiative is another step in the County’s plan to become a no-kill community. Weiskopf said other animal adoption promotions are planned throughout the year that will help in achieving the no-kill goal.
ASPCA research recently published in the Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science found that waiving fees for adult cats boosts adoptions without diminishing the value adopters place on their cats. In addition, fee-waived adoptions may actually decrease shelter costs by reducing the average length of stay for adult cats.
The special is available at both Animal Services locations: in Palmetto, 305 25th St. W. (open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and in Bradenton, 1002 B., Manatee Ave. W., (open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Preview available animals by visiting www.mymanatee.org/pets
For more information, call Animal Services at (941) 742-5933.
Need some help with the particulars? Here’s a quick guide to introducing cats and dogs.
Of the more than 90 million cats that reside in the US only 22% of cats are adopted from shelters.