Nov 5, 2006

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MEDIA CONTACT:  Ria Brown, Lee County Animal Services
                                        (239) 432-2090 ext. 241 

County and State Agencies Support Animal Shelter Appreciation Week!

Fort Myers, Florida, November 5, 2006–Lee County Animal Services and The Florida Animal Control Association (FACA) supports the recognition of Animal Care Workers across the state.  Animal Shelter Appreciation Week, held from November 5th to 11th and sponsored nationally by the Humane Society of the United Sates, is dedicated to showing support for the many individuals who give so much for so many of our homeless animals all year. 

Lee County Animal Services and FACA offer the following suggestions as ways that individuals and communities can show their support:

Adopt a pet. The benefits are endless.  Pets bring so much enjoyment to our lives and we can have the added satisfaction of knowing that our good fortune has also saved a life.  When you are ready to add a new companion to your family, visit your local animal shelter to find that special pet. 

Visit the shelter. Many people are surprised at the wonderful pets and compassionate, hardworking people they meet at their local shelter.  If you have the time, volunteer.  Even if you can't volunteer at the shelter, there are many ways you can use your talents to help such as assisting or planning special events and fundraising.  The opportunities are limited only by your imagination. 

Donate. Ask your local shelter for a Wish List of needed items or make a monetary donation.  Many shelters have Trust Funds that provide direct assistance to the animals.

Be a role model. Be the best care-taker you can for your own pets and set an example for others.  Showing a child or neighbor what is required to be a responsible pet owner including spaying or neutering your pets, providing regular veterinary care, and by spending quality time with your pet.
Be an advocate. Let your local law makers know that you support the work of your community's shelter and that you stand behind them in their efforts to enforce laws that protect people and pets.  Always report abuse or neglect so it can be investigated properly.

Say thanks. Shelter workers have a tiring and often underappreciated job.  They provide a true service to the animals and people in their community by doing a job that most would not want or could not do.  Just saying you appreciate their hard work and dedication goes a long way.

For more information on how you can show support in your community contact Lee County Animal Services at (239) 432-2083, www.LeeLostPets.com, or other local shelters.

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