July fireworks have officially begun with a pet population explosion in Lee County. As we celebrate our country’s freedom, Lee County Domestic Animal Services hopes to give homeless pets a chance for a new life too! Throughout the entire month of July adult dogs and cats may be adopted for $10, puppies and small breed dogs are only $45, and kittens just $25. Cats and kittens are also two for the price of one!
The increase in pets entering the shelter coincides with the start of kitten season which began in May. An average of 523 cats per month enters the shelter during kitten season compared to a monthly average of only 286 during the rest of the year, an 83% increase. The shelter is also at capacity for dogs and the problem is compounded by a drop in adoptions during summer months.
“We are utilizing every foster home we have available to give these pets a chance,” says Donna Ward, LCDAS Director. “The other shelters and rescues that we partner with to help alleviate overcrowding at our shelter are also at capacity so we are nearing crisis mode,” she adds.
Although fees will be reduced, the adoption package valued at $500 still includes the following:
- Spay/neuter surgery
- Age-appropriate vaccinations
- Rabies vaccination and county license for pets over 3 months
- 10-day pet health guarantee
- Microchip ID
- Feline Leukemia and Aids test for cats
- Heartworm test for dogs over 6 months
- Flea treatment
- De-worming
- Training DVD
Photos and information about lost pets or pets for adoption are available on the agency’s website at http://www.leelostpets.com. Pet info on the website updates hourly. Adoption applications may be completed online. Anyone interested in fostering pets may also obtain an application online.