Tis the season when many families are considering adding a pet to their household and the Burlington County Commissioners want them to do so responsibly.
Rather than purchasing a puppy or kitten from a pet store or breeder, the Commissioners are encouraging those considering a pet to visit the Burlington County Animal Shelter where there are numerous loveable dogs and cats looking for the right forever home.
To further help promote adoptions, the Commissioners have agreed to waive all adoption fees during the month of December.
“Dogs and cats can be wonderful companions, but we want those looking for a pet to consider their choice carefully and avoid purchasing one on a whim,” said Burlington County Commissioner Dan O’Connell, the liaison to the animal shelter. “We want residents to adopt, rather than shop from a pet store or breeder, but we also want them to proceed carefully because owning a pet is also a responsibility.”
He hopes those who feel ready for a pet or are on the fence to call or visit the shelter at 35 Academy Drive, Westampton. County shelter staff are available to answer questions about the available animals.
“Our staff can help determine if a specific animal is a good fit for an individual’s circumstances or family,” O’Connell said. “Adopting a dog or cat from the shelter can be a wonderful way to celebrate the holidays but we want to help families make the right decision.”
Residents should visit the shelter during its regular operating hours or by appointment to meet some of the loveable animals who are looking for forever homes. Shelter staff and volunteers have several decorated trees on display for visitors to vote for their favorite between now and Dec. 24.
The shelter is also partnering with the Friends of the Burlington County Animal Shelter to hold a special open house this Saturday, Dec. 9, from noon to 3:30 PM at the shelter. Santa Claus will be on site for pet and family photos.
Walk-in visits to the shelter are available on Mondays, Tuesday, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 3:30 PM and on Thursdays from noon to 6:30 PM. Visits on Wednesdays are by appointment only.
Photos and information about available pets can also be found online at https://www.co.burlington.nj.us/168/Animal-Shelter .
Fostering is also an option for families undecided about owning a pet or unsure whether a specific dog or cat is the right one for their home.
“My own dog, Bingo, was originally a foster, but we quickly became best friends and I’m proud to call him an adopted member of my family,” O’Connell said. “Anyone with a love of animals should consider becoming a foster. It’s a tremendous service for the shelter and will help brighten the holidays for you and a loving animal.”
Residents who are unable to adopt or foster can still help the shelter and the animals housed there by following the shelter’s social media and spreading the word about the amazing dogs and cats that are available and looking for new homes.
Residents can also volunteer their time to help with shelter tasks or make financial donations or give the shelter needed supplies. For more information, including a wish list of needed items, visit https://www.co.burlington.nj.us/168/Animal-Shelter .