Animal Services Giving Away Pets For Free

So you might not be able to bring your kid a bunny for easter, but how about a free cat or dog?

Manatee County Animal Services is doing a promotion through Saturday where they are giving away cats and dogs for free. 

But wait there's more! Pick up your new pet and you also get to select an Easter egg that has a chance inside to win an extra prize. 

"We have a pet for everyone," said Animal Services Chief Kris Weiskopf. "Help us help the pets by adopting today; every dog and cat deserves a second chance to live and love.” 

Animal Services staff at the downtown Bradenton adoption center said Thursday they have been busy with requests and had three adoptions as of 1 p.m.

Of course, details apply—you do have to pay $15 for a required license certificate and tag for Manatee County residents. And yes, while supplies last. (Where's Anthony Sullivan when you need him? Oh wait, here he is.) 

But here's what you get with that free kitty or puppy:  

• Free health check
• Will be spayed or neutered
• Vaccinated
• Microchipped

To pick out your free pet, visit Animal Services in Bradenton at 1002 B Manatee Avenue West or Palmetto, 305 25th St. West. 

The Bradenton location is open 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. 

The Palmetto location is open Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

You can also browse the selection of pets at www.mymanatee.org/pets.

For more information, call (941) 742-5933.