Mayor Proclaims November As Adopt A Senior Pet Month and Highlights Senior to Senior Program

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 3, 2009

For more information:
Laurie Ringquist, Director, Animal Care & Control Department, City of Bloomington, 349-3870
Daniel Lopez, Communications Director, City of Bloomington, 349-3569, [mailto:lopezd@bloomington.in.gov]




Bloomington, IN - Mayor Mark Kruzan has proclaimed November as Adopt a Senior Pet Month in Bloomington. Adopt a Senior Pet Month is recognized nationally and helps raise awareness of older animals that arrive at [Blacky, a 5 year old Australian kelpie mix. She is a small dog, only about 25 pounds, but she has a big personality. She likes other dogs, rides well in a car, walks nicely on leash and is housetrained. She will also dance for treats and loves to give kisses!|image:5979,right]shelters nationwide, including the City of Bloomington Animal Shelter.

To celebrate the month and promote adoption of older animals at the shelter, half price adoption fees of $27.50 for senior animals (5 years and older) will be offered throughout November. The fees include a first round of vaccinations, a free visit to a local veterinary office, heartworm testing for dogs, feline leukemia/FIV testing for cats, microchip identification and spay/neuter surgery, a value of more than $200.

"Senior pets are so deserving of a second chance at happiness," says Mayor Mark Kruzan. "I'm hopeful that they'll be a source of joy and companionship for all members of our community, especially seniors."

The City recognizes that pets provide particular benefits to senior citizens, and through a Senior to Senior Adoption program will offer half-price adoptions year-round at the Bloomington Animal Shelter to qualified senior citizens 60 years and older who adopt a senior companion five (5) years and older.[Mojo is a 6 year old shorthair cat who loves to purr and talk. He is mellow, easy going and friendly and likes other cats.|image:5980,left]

There are many benefits to adopting an older pet including:

• Most senior pets are already housetrained or litter trained.
• Older dogs are not teething puppies and won't chew your shoes or furniture.
• Older animals already have grown into their shape and personality.
• Senior pets are generally calmer and quieter and won't demand as much time and attention as younger, more energetic animals.
• Older animals are grateful for the second chance they have been given and will give you a lifetime of love.

Adoptable animals can be visited at the City of Bloomington Animal Shelter, 3410 S Walnut, on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from noon to 5 p.m.; Tuesdays and Fridays from noon to 7 p.m.; and Sundays from 1-4 p.m. and online: [966].

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