Islip Animal Shelter: No Dips In Pet Adoptions Amid Coronavirus

TOWN OF ISLIP, NY — While the coronavirus has put a pause on a lot of aspects of life, it has not stopped adoptions at the town of Islip animal shelter. The Islip Animal Shelter and Adopt-a-Pet center announced recently there has been no reduction in pet adoptions in the past month as a result of the current pandemic.

In spite of new adoption procedures in accordance with the New York state guidelines, the shelter has managed to help 18 dogs and two cats find their forever homes since March 30.

For the past month, the shelter, located on S. Denver Avenue in Bay Shore has implemented a new adoption policy. Those interested in adopting must first view the animals on the shelter's Facebook page under photos, on Petfinder.com or Adopt-A-Pet.com. If you are interested in any of the available animals, send an email to animalshelter@islipny.gov and to receive an application to complete. The email the application back to the shelter with the dog, dogs name and tag number on it.

Once the application is complete and all the proper paperwork has been submitted, the shelter will contact the applicant to make an appointment to come see the animal. Appointments will be spread out so to serve one family at the shelter at once. All introductions and meet-and-greets will be done outside.

"It’s a positive sign to see the Islip community has continued to open their hearts and homes to provide loving families for our pets during these trying times," Department of Environmental Control Commissioner Martin Bellew said. "For many, there's never been a better time to bond with a new family friend. It's a ray of hope and a testament to the kindheartedness of our neighbors."

For more information about the Islip Animal Shelter and Adopt-a-Pet Center and for full adoption guidelines, visit www.islipny.gov/community-and-services/animal-shelter.