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The Best Things in Life are Free!

Adoption Fees Waived on the Shelter’s Awesome Adult Cats

If you're considering a new member of the family, now is a great time to consider adopting a cat.  Not only is it National Adopt a Cat Month, but here at the Animal Shelter of the Wood River Valley, we're excited to announce that as of June 15, 2012, all adoptions of adult cats will be FREE!

This permanent change was inspired by new research from the ASPCA showing that it will increase adoption rates and "dramatically impact the lives of thousands of shelter cats who would otherwise reside in a shelter for months or be euthanized."  As a no-kill shelter, our cats don't face euthanization; however, we do have many cats who endure extended stays in shelter, sometimes for several years or more.

It is our hope that by waiving adoption fees on cats over 1 year of age, we will improve their quality of life, decrease their length of stay in shelter, and help us maintain the level of quality care for all our animals that we know our community values and demands.

While kittens are ever-popular and get adopted quickly from Shelter, many people are unaware of the benefits of adopting an adult cat.  With an adult, you know what you are getting as their personality has already developed and they’ve grown out of their kitten mischief.  They are trained to use the litter box and are less likely to be caught climbing your curtains.  As with all animals adopted from the Animal Shelter, all of our adult cats are ready to go: they are spayed/neutered, microchipped, vaccinated, and tested for FIV and feline leukemia.

Here’s a handy checklist to consider before adopting a cat, thanks to the American Humane Association:

"TOP TEN" CHECKLIST FOR ADOPTING A CAT

1. If you're thinking about adopting a cat, consider taking home two.


2. Find a cat whose personality compliments yours.


3. Pick out a veterinarian ahead of time and schedule a visit within the first few days following the adoption.


4. Make sure everyone in the house is prepared to have a cat before it comes home.


5. Budget for the short- and long-term costs of a cat.


6. Stock up on supplies before the cat arrives.


7. Cat-proof your home.


8. Go slowly when introducing your cat to new friends and family.


9. Be sure to include your new pet in your family’s emergency plan.


10. If you’re considering giving a cat as a gift, the recipient must be an active participant in the adoption process.

Our trained adoption counselors are happy to talk to you if you have any questions about fitting a new cat into your life.  Call us any time to discuss which of our fabulous adult felines might be right for your home!  (208) 788-4351.