Sunday Hours Begin for Hillsborough County Animal Services

Sunday is an ideal day to adopt a pet, said Marti Ryan, spokeswoman for Hillsborough County Animal Service, 440 Falkenburg Rd., Tampa.

"It's traditionally a high adoption day for shelters because it's a family day and people have more time to comtemplate their decision about adopting a pet," said Ryan.

Unfortunately, Hillsborough County Animal Services is closed on Sunday.

But that will change this week when Animal Services celebrates its new Sunday hours with an ice cream social Sept. 25 from noon to 2 p.m.

"Residents are invited to come out and enjoy some ice cream donated by Blue Bell ice cream and tour our facility," said Ryan. "Plus, for one special one-day low price, adopters at Hillsborough County Animal Services can take home rescued pets that are fully spayed/neutered, micro-chipped,vaccinated for rabies and issued a Hillsborough County tag.

"We've got plenty of dogs, cats, puppies and kittens to choose from right now," she said. "Animal Services is hoping the new Sunday hours will lead to the adoption of more pets."

In addition to ice cream from Blue Bell Creameries, the event will feature tips from experts on training animals and by vets on veterinary care for responsible ownering.

Residents also can find out about volunteer opportunities at Animal Services and look for lost pets.

"This is something we've wanted to do for a very long time," said Hillsborough County Animal Services operation director, Dennis McCullough. "We're very much a community organization and a work in progress on behalf of the animals. When people see what we have to offer, and the services that our staff and volunteers work to provide for these pets, people want to help us save lives."

Dog adopters also will receive a welcome letter from the American Kennel Club (AKC). The county shelter has joined the AKC Canine Partners for a new program designed especially for mixed breeds, which offers agility training, health care and other benefits.

Ryan said Animal Services has also streamlined the application process for prospective adopters. Those wishing to adopt only will be asked to provide a valid photo identification and proof of address (such as a utility or other bill).  

Newly modified hours of operation for Hillsborough County Animal Services are as follows (the adoption desk closes 30 minutes prior to the shelter daily):

Tuesday – Friday:  9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Saturday:  9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Sunday:  11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

For more information, contact Hillsborough County Animal Services at 813-744-5660 or online atwww.hillsboroughcounty.org/animalservices.