def # 19 02/08/11

SOULMATES CAN BE FOUND AT OCEAN COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTERS

THE SEARCH for a soul mate can sometimes be a bit daunting but for those individuals looking for love this Valentine’s Day or any day, the answer just might be waiting at the Ocean County Animal Shelters.

Granted, what you bring home from the shelter will not shower you in flowers, and candy, but the unconditional love provided by a shelter dog or cat is truly priceless, said Freeholder Gerry P. Little, who serves as liaison to the Ocean County Health Department.

In an effort to advance this matchmaking, the Ocean County Health Department, which operates shelters in Jackson and Stafford townships, will waive the adoption fees on any senior pet or pet that’s been homeless since before Christmas. The fees will be waived starting Saturday, Feb. 12 until Feb. 20th.

"This is such a thoughtful way to share your love with a cat or dog looking for a forever home," Little said. "It’s also a great way to cure the winter blues."

"These homeless pets have been patiently waiting for a new home at one of our shelters," said Brian Lippai, who manages the shelters.

In addition, all of the animals available for adoption have been spayed/neutered, vaccinated and micro chipped. The shelter volunteer friends will even throw in an adoption starter kit, including a bag of food, treats and toys.

            "The Ocean County Health Department’s two animal shelters are consistently at full capacity with unwanted pets that are in desperate need of a forever home. So if you are looking for love, then look no further than the Ocean County Animal Facilities this Valentine’s Day," said Daniel Regenye, Ocean County Health Department Public Health Coordinator.

            Little noted that in 2010 more than 1,700 animals were placed in new homes through the efforts of the shelter staffs and the many shelter volunteers.

"I want to extend my appreciation to all the people who lend a helping hand at the shelters, whether walking the dogs or providing foster care," Little said. "The animals are well taken care of and loved during their stay. We are hopeful our residents will find it in their hearts to open up their homes to these abandoned animals."

Little noted that it usually costs $60 to adopt a dog at one of the county shelters and $55 for a cat.

"This is a great time for future pet owners to visit the Animal Facilities, get to meet and greet our sheltered animals, learn the benefits of pet adoption, and possibly bring home the newest member of the family," said Freeholder Director Joseph H. Vicari.

            The Northern Ocean County Animal Facility is located at 615 Freemont Ave., Jackson Township and the Southern Ocean County Animal Facility is located at 360 Haywood Road, Manahawkin.  Adoption hours are 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. daily and until 6:30 p.m. Wednesday evenings.  For more information about this special adoption event, please call 732-657-8086 or 609-978-0127.