Manatee County Animal Services Launches Holiday Campaign To Support Shelter Animals

MANATEE COUNTY, FL — Every pet deserves a home for the holidays and MCAS is offering several options to help its shelter animals this season, the agency said in a news release.

In its “Home for the Holidays” campaign, animal services encourages the community to adopt, rather than shop, when searching for a new pet to bring home. There are more than 100 adoptable dogs and cats to choose from.

Adoption fees will be waived for all pets in lieu of a donation made to the Friends of Manatee County Animal Services. This promotion runs through Jan. 2.

All adoptions include spay or neuter, microchip, and a rabies certificate - a value of over $300 in savings. Manatee County residents are required to license their new pet for an additional $20.

The Palmetto Adoption Center and Shelter is located at 305 25th Street West in Palmetto and Manatee County Cat Town is located at 216 6th Ave. East in Bradenton. Appointments are preferred. Plan a visit at mymanatee.org/pets and filling out an adopter profile to reserve an appointment date.

Unfortunately, not every pet will find their forever family in time for the holidays, MCAS said. The agency believes all pets benefit from being in a home, even if only for a few days.

The agency is bringing back its short-term holiday season fostering program. Through Jan. 2, fosters can bring home a shelter dog or cat for two to five days. MCAS will provide all food and necessary supplies. Potential fosters can fill out an application here.

Those who want to support shelter animals can donated to the Stuff Our Stockings Donation Drive, which kicks off Friday at both shelter locations.

People are encouraged to drop off donations of new toys and treats for the homeless animals at MCAS shelters.

The following items are needed:

• small treats for dogs and cats
• fleece cat blankets
• various cat toys
• Kong Classic products for dogs (large size)
• Peanut Butter (without xylitol)

Find a full Amazon Smile Wish List created by Friends of Manatee County Animal Services here. Donations can be shipped directly to the Palmetto shelter or dropped off at either location.