Black FUR-iday

On November 25, 2011, Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter (SCCAS) will host its 1^st Annual “Black FUR-iday” Pet Adoption event at SCCAS’ Santa Cruz location, 2200 7^th Avenue, from 11:00 am to 2:00 p.m. This event is a joint partnership between SCCAS and local animal welfare organizations Animal Friends Rescue Project (AFRP) www.animalfriendrescue.org, and Animal Shelter Relief (ASR) www.animalshelterrelief.org.  All cats, dogs and rabbits with a trace of black fur will be offered for adoption for only $25!  All other cats, dogs and rabbits without black fur will be half price. Why would an animal shelter need to promote black animals? Black animals linger and often times are adopted last. Animal welfare professionals have long-ago termed this phenomenon as “Black Pet Syndrome,” which describes the lack of interest that black animals get when they are at a shelter. One theory of why this is true is that black animals are harder to see in cages and kennels or don’t photograph as well and therefore their photos don’t get many hits during online searches for companions.  The other theory is that, especially with cats, people still harbor superstitions that black cats bring bad luck. Whatever the reason, SCCAS, AFRP and ASR are looking to bring attention to the “Black Pet Syndrome” and get these wonderful animals adopted. All adoptions include spay/neuter, microchip (including registration), age appropriate vaccinations, Felv/FIV testing (cats only), routine treatment for fleas/worms, dog license (for dogs only) and a free pet wellness exam with local participating veterinarians.  Also, there are other homeless animals without black fur that are waiting to be adopted!