Adopt a pet for holiday happiness

    Many people will consider adding a pet to their family this holiday season. They have a lot of options, but the best may be the Public Health Department’s Animal Services division.

    Since Animal Services must reduce or eliminate problems created by the increasing number of animals within the city limits, many animals are impounded. Owners have only three days to redeem impounded animals; after that, the animal’s future is at the city’s discretion.

    Unfortunately, about 20,000 animals are euthanized each year. Fortunate ones find refuge in a home placed by any of the 50 different rescue agencies that partner with Animal Services, such as the Humane Society.

    State law requires all animals from shelters be neutered. The $60 fee for dogs and the $40 fee for cats includes the operation, rabies vaccine and one-year registration for the city tag.

    The Collegian will have more information on strays and their adoption next week.