Pinellas County Animal Services aims to make the holidays a little brighter for dogs in need of a good home this season with “Home for the Holidays,” a program that allows residents to foster dogs for two nights in hopes they find the perfect fit for their family. The campaign runs Dec. 1 to 21.
Home for the Holidays is only available for adult large breed dogs, with a focus on dogs that have been with Animal Services for more than 100 days. If the fit is not perfect after two nights, the home still provides a comfortable break for the pet.
Those interested in adopting a pet this holiday season from Animal Services can do so for $5 for all cats and kittens, $25 for large adult dogs and $75 for small breeds and puppies. The adoption center is open every night until 6 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., but closed on Monday, Dec. 24 (Christmas Eve), as well as Tuesday, Dec. 25 (Christmas Day).
Anyone interested in adopting or who has received training and is interested in fostering should call the Pinellas County Animal Services adoption coordinator at (727) 582-2600 opt. 8 and schedule an appointment for pick up.
Doug Brightwell, director of Pinellas County Animal Services, cautions that not everyone should adopt a pet during the holidays. Adoption parents should be committed to offering a new furry family member a forever home. Animals are also not good gift ideas and those who would like to offer someone a new pet can purchase a gift certificate from Animal Services. This allows the future pet owner to make an informed decision and find the perfect match.
Pinellas County Animal Services is located at 12450 Ulmerton Road in Largo. Normal hours of operation are Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., with the adoption center closing at 5:30 p.m. Saturday hours are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and services include adoptions. Rabies vaccinations are administered on Thursdays from 1 to 4 p.m. The facility is closed on all Pinellas County holidays.
For information on how to adopt, donate or volunteer, join Pinellas County Animal Services on Facebook. To learn more about the shelter, visitwww.pinellascounty.org/animalservices, or call (727) 582-2600. The lost or found pet hotline is (727) 582-2604.