Adopt a Pet This Saturday at Westchase Library

Many people consider their pets to be family members so it’s no surprise that an entire week – this week in fact – has been designated as National Pet Week.

The has recognized this commemoration for over a decade, and will do so again this Saturday, May 7 from 10am-2pm when people can come and adopt a pet.  Last year, 200 people attended and five pets were adopted.

“We try to dispense information, not just books through many formats.  Children have been checking out books from our pet week book display for several weeks and are the greatest animal lovers!” said Beth Dolson, librarian at Upper Tampa Bay Regional Public Library. 

In honor of all of our furry friends and this upcoming event, Patch spoke to Marti Ryan, community & media relations spokesperson for Hillsborough County Animal Services.

Patch:  What is “National Pet Week” and what is its primary purpose?

Ryan:  “Be Kind to Animals Week” (or “Pet Week”) is a national awareness campaign that promotes compassion, humane welfare and respect for all animals through responsible pet ownership and education as well as volunteerism.

Patch:  What are some ways people can observe N.P.W.?

Ryan:  There are many ways to observe this initiative.  Always provide proper food, water, shelter, veterinary care and love for your animals.  Keep vaccinations and tags up to date, make sure those County pet registration tags are securely fastened at all times, and get your pet micro-chipped.

Report animal neglect and cruelty to authorities (HCAS is the agency of jurisdiction for animal enforcement in the county). And finally, refrain from feeding wildlife, volunteer your time and/or resources to a local animal shelter; or foster an animal to help save a life.

Patch:  On average, how many animals “reside” at your shelter?

Ryan:  We have around 400 animals in-house at any given time.

Patch:  Your Mobile Adoption Vehicle (MAV) will bring some shelter pets to the library on Saturday.  Do you have any information – ages, breeds, etc.? 

Ryan:  We encourage everyone to 'be kind' by adopting a shelter pet!  Since we are the central collection point for lost and stray pets, and they must remain for several days to give owners a chance to reclaim them.  Generally, we bring a variety of breeds and sizes and dogs and cats.

Patch:  Will these animals be able to go home with their new families “on the spot”, or is there a wait period?    

Ryan:  It's possible that many of the animals will be ready to go home.  If not, it would be a short wait to receive spay/neuter surgery and vaccinations.   Prospective adopters should bring their photo ID, proof of address, and renters' permission if applicable.   A copy of veterinary records for current pets in the home is also a good idea.   

Shelter adoptables will all come spayed/neutered, vaccinated, micro-chipped and licensed in Hillsborough County and seniors receive discounts.  It's just a terrific deal for a soul-mate who'll love you forever.  Shelter pets are the most appreciative -- it's a win-win!

Patch:  Dr. Jane Boston of will host an “Ask-the-Vet” session to educate potential adopters about how to best choose the right pet at 11am.  Why is this topic so important? 

Ryan:  Pets rely on us forever, so they should never be impulse buys or gift purchases.  Other typical concerns:  sometimes the kind of pet you grew up with out in the country is not the best choice for your new urban lifestyle.  Be responsible, think ahead, and do some homework…..the research can be fun!

Patch:  Tell us about your Transition-Foster Program.

Ryan:  So many worthy animals just run out of time in the shelter.  These pets might need a different venue, a little more time and TLC, or a place to receive medical recuperative care.  The Transition-Foster Program has saved hundreds of animals over the years, and we always need more committed families/individuals. 

Teens can get involved with parental permission.  We may have some animals now in the "Transition" program at the library on Saturday as well. 

Applications will be available on Saturday and a volunteer orientation at Animal Services is slated for Saturday, May 21st from 10am-12pm (reservations required).

 Patch:  Let’s talk about donations.  What do you need the most?

Ryan:  Monetary donations help pay for medical needs of injured and abused pets.   We can also use gently-used towels and canned food which helps us earn back the trust of frightened and abused animals since it is more enticing than kibble.  

Patch:  How has the economy affected pet care?

Ryan:  Many people turn in animals due to (vet) expenses.   We discuss low-cost care options and pet food assistance in an effort to keep an animal with its family.  But often, pets are turned in by people relocating who are overwhelmed and/or can't afford exorbitant deposits for rentals.   

Be Kind to Animals Day will be held this Saturday, May 7 from 10am-2pm in the Community Room of the Upper Tampa Bay Regional Library.

The 11am Ask-A-Vet Q&A session will feature Dr. Jane Boston of Country Chase Veterinary, who has been practicing veterinary medicine for over two decades.

For additional information and/or donations, contact Hillsborough County Animal Services at (813) 744-5660, info@hillsboroughcounty.org, or log onto their website at www.hillsboroughcounty.org/animalservices.