Ocean County Hopes To Clear Shelters With August Pet Adoption Event

TOMS RIVER, NJ — If you are thinking about adopting a pet, the Ocean County Animal Facilities are hoping you will consider adoption and help them Clear the Shelters.

The Clear the Shelters Pet Adoption Campaign started out as a one-day event eight years ago. Now it's a monthlong celebration and officials are hopeful that a number of animals will find their forever homes after a year that has stressed resources following two hoarding cases.

"The Ocean County Health Department and our two shelters had a very eventful year," said Daniel Regenye, public health coordinator for the health department. "We had two pet hoarding cases in the county with close to 200 cats and dogs coming under our care within a very short period of time. From there it was straight into another bountiful kitten season. So this event comes at a good time and we’re hopeful to clear the shelters by finding forever homes for all these wonderful pets."

Anyone who adopts a pet during the month of August will receive a free goodie bag stuffed with healthy treats and toys. The event highlight is the discount adoption day set for Saturday, August 26, with adoption fees reduced 50 percent on all pets.

Every dog and cat available for adoption receives a veterinary exam, age-appropriate vaccinations, is spayed/neutered, and microchipped.

"If you are serious about adopting a pet and have done your homework then we encourage you to adopt only from a shelter. There is no better feeling than adopting a shelter pet and giving it a second chance," said Brian Lippai, OCHD Public Information Coordinator. "We have so many different types to choose from. Pure and mixed breeds that come in a variety of sizes, colors and ages. You can certainly find the perfect kitten, cat or dog for you and your lifestyle."

"We are so grateful to the Ocean County residents and visitors who support this special event by adopting one of our shelter cats and dogs. These pets all deserve a forever home," said Ocean County Commissioner Gary Quinn, liaison to the Ocean County Board of Health.

The Southern Ocean County Animal Facility is located at 360 Haywood Road in Manahawkin, and the Northern Ocean County Animal Facility address is 615 Freemont Ave. in Jackson.

For more pet adoption information call 732-657-8086 or 609-978-0127, or check out the Ocean County Health Department website at www.ochd.org.