Cats and kittens have taken over shelters in Santa Barbara County. With “kitten season” still in full swing, Santa Barbara County Animal Services is partnering with the Animal Shelter Assistance Program (ASAP) and the Santa Barbara Animal Care Foundation to find homes for the felines.
On Aug. 18 and 19, Animal Services, ASAP, and the Animal Care Foundation will be holding a pre-owned free cat adoption event at the Santa Maria animal center.
The event will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on both days, and Animal Services will be waiving the regular $75 adoption fee. According to a recent press release from the Santa Barbara Public Health Department, adult cats will be offered to qualified adopters for no money down. During the event, kittens will be available for $40 or two for $75.
According to the health department, there are almost 100 adoptable cats waiting for loving owners in the Santa Maria animal center. There are also 20 to 30 adorable kittens available for adoption, with 70 in foster care.
“Santa Barbara County Animal Services has all makes and models of cats,” the press release said. “Black and white cats, orange cats, striped cats, couch potato cats, and total purr machines.”
All cats and kittens come with a “multi-point” inspection that includes a vet exam, spay/neuter, appropriate vaccinations, FeLV and FIV screening, deworming, and flea treatment.
All potential owners must meet county Animal Services criteria. Proof of homeownership, a driver’s license, and valid identification are required for adoptions.
Interested owners are encouraged to visit the Santa Maria animal center prior to the event to see what’s available; adopters can take their furry friends home even faster by completing the homeownership verification/landlord approval in advance.
Feel free to stop by the Santa Maria animal center at 548 W. Foster Road or call the shelter at 934-6119 for more information.
Staff Writer Kristina Sewell compiled this week’s Community Corner. Send comments or ideas to the Sun via e-mail at ksewell@santamariasun.com.
This article appears in Aug 16-23, 2012.