Smithtown Adoptable Pet Of The Week: Valentina

SMITHTOWN, NY — Valentina, a 5-year-old female Shih Tzu mix, was named the Smithtown Animal Shelter's Pet of the Week.

She lived a sheltered early life, but now finds herself in need of a new home, according to the shelter.

"She is learning to come out of her shell and blossom into her own," the shelter wrote in an email. "She came to the Animal Shelter when her previous owner realized that she could no longer provide her with the care she needs to live her best life."

Valentina deals with chronic dry eye and skin infections, and a potential owner would need to be comfortable with providing her with eye drops, medicated baths and visits to the veterinarian, according to the shelter.

"This extra bit of effort is absolutely worth it, as Valentina is a total sweetheart who is very gentle and loves kisses," the shelter stated. "She can be a little timid with other animals at first, but will overall do well with other dogs and cats in the home."

If you are interested in meeting Valentina, please call ahead to schedule an hour to properly interact with her in a domestic setting, which includes the shelter's Meet and Greet Room, the dog runs and the Dog Walk trail. Family Pet Meet and Greets and at-home interactions are also welcome and an integral part of the adoption process.

The Smithtown Animal Shelter said it must continue to practice social distancing, safety guidance and indoor mask guidelines to best protect the animals and staff. While it is open to the public, the shelter asks that people call ahead to schedule an appointment.

Hours are currently Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sundays and Wednesday evenings are by appointment only.

To inquire about the Pet of the Week or to meet your potential soulmate, call the Smithtown Animal & Adoption Center at 631-360-7575.

The Smithtown Animal Shelter's primary concern is finding the perfect home for each animal that finds his/her way to it. The Animal Control Officers at the Smithtown Animal Shelter will go out of their way to ensure both the rescued and rescuer are made for one another. If you have other pets, you can arrange to bring your four-legged family member into the shelter or they can set up an at-home meet & greet to see how your prospective new addition does with other family members, pets or the household itself. Please allow yourself an hour minimum to meet with your potential new family member.

The shelter is also seeking foster volunteers. Foster parents provide temporary care for cats, kittens and dogs in their own homes. Some animals need as little as two weeks of care, while others may need care for an extended time. Potential fosters need to have no other pets or young children in the home.

If interested, download the Foster Application here.