Free Dogs, Cats in April at Animal Services

Potential pet owners on a budget might just be able to find a four-legged friend for free courtesy of Pasco County Animal Services.

Throughout the month of April, New Port Richey residents interested in pet ownership can stop by the 19640 Dogpatch Lane shelter during regular business hours to adopt a critter at no charge. The $10 county licensing fee for dogs, however, does  apply.

Why is the County Giving Dogs Away?

Overcrowding has been an ongoing issue at Animal Services. As the county moves toward its goal of saving 90 percent of all creatures brought into the shelter, it’s taking extra measures to keep its shelter population down, a county media release said.

“In order to avoid humane euthanasia and implement  a SAVE 90% Program, shelters often become overpopulated with dogs and cats,” the release explained. “Animals can be held for months rather than days. The ultimate solution is to find permanent homes for all of these animals.”

Other Upcoming Events

Animal Services is also taking some of its adoptable pets on the road this coming weekend. Potential pet owners can turn out to these locations to check out available animals:

• Unity Truth Center – Adoptable critters from Animal Services will be on site at the 5844 Pine Hill Road church from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 20 during the congregation’s pet blessing.
• Shops at Wiregrass – Also on Saturday, adoptable critters will be shown off at the Wesley Chapel mall, 28211 Paseo Drive, during a Dogs Day Out event from 10 a.m. to noon.
• Pet Point Animal Hospital – Dogs from Animal Services will help this new 24416 State Road 54 veterinary hospital celebrate its grand opening from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

Want to find out more about adoptable animals? Visit Pasco County Animal Services online.