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Adoptathon at Noah's Ark
(by Elsie Walker - July 07, 2008)
Loving pets, waiting to bring their warmth into forever homes, will be on hand at Noah’s Ark’s second Annual Adopt-a-thon. The event will take place on June 28 and 29 from 11am – 3pm at the animal shelter located at 1915 Route 26 West, Ledgewood.
Lauren R. Swern, Development Director at Noah’s Ark, explained that the purpose of the adopt-a-thon is “to spread awareness about pet adoption and to reach our goal of finding forever homes for the homeless pets currently in our care. That means finding the right match between pet and adopter. To help us find the right dog or cat for a potential adopter, we’ll talk to them about other pets they have and how they see a new pet fitting into their life. We also ask that everyone in the family comes to meet the pet.”
In existence for forty years, Noah’s Ark is a non-profit organization which has an adoption-focused no-kill shelter. “No-kill” means that no adoptable pet will be euthanized due to age, breed, lack of space or modifiable behavioral issues. In addition\ to giving shelter to pets while awaiting adoption, Noah’s Ark also operates a Spay-Neuter Hotline Swern explained that people can call for coupons for reduced spay or neuter services from a network of veterinarians in the community. Noah’s Ark is supported by donations and fundraisers.
Due to space limitations, Noah’s Ark is a limited admission facility. So, the adopt-a-thon not only helps those currently at the shelter, but animals that may find themselves homeless in the future.
“…every animal that finds a forever home during the Adopt-a-thon means that we’ve created room at the shelter that we can use to save one more animal in need of a second chance. And last year, approximately 650 cats and dogs found forever homes because they found their way to Noah’s Ark…..,” shared Swern.
Hosting the adopt-a-thon will be radio personality Lauren A. Robleza from WMTR-AM 1250. There’ll be Cliff’s Ice Cream, popcorn, cotton candy, and goodie bags designed by Noah’s Ark Junior Volunteers. Swern said that the goodie bags will be filled with all sorts of information and samples from event sponsors, which are local businesses and organizations.
Of course, the most important part of the event is the adoptable dogs and cats.
“Noah’s Ark tries to provide adoption opportunities for a wide variety of dogs and cats as well as puppies and kittens. Right now we have several special animals at the shelter who need a special home. Naklin is a dog that was born deaf. While Naklin may have a better excuse for not listening than most dogs, she is just like other dogs in almost every way. She likes long walks, shows endless affection, and has plenty of energy to play with her best canine friend, Ursula. Naklin and Ursula have a special bond. If you are looking for a loyal companion and long-time friend, both Naklin and Ursula just may be the dogs for you,” said Swern.
Adoptable pets can be viewed on Noah’s Ark’s website: Noahsarknj.org or on petfinder.com and 1-800-save-a-pet.com Swern noted that there is a fee to adopt an animal from Noah's Ark. She suggests that people visit the Noah’s Ark website for more information about adoption fees and what is included. For example, adult pets at Noah’s Ark have been spayed or neutered, have been microchipped and are up –to-date on all their shots. Information will also be available at the adopt-a-thon.
There is a special program for senior citizens adopting a pet.
“The Love of Your Life program at Noah's Ark is part of the Purina Pets for Seniors Program, which promotes the life-enriching benefits of pet ownership among senior citizens across the country. During the year, animal shelters nationwide are rallying together to encourage local senior citizens to meet their adoptable pets and ultimately find a companion to adopt at $50 less than the standard adoption fee,” said Swern.
More information on the program can be found at www.purinapetsforseniors.com
So, come out to the adopt-a-thon and check out the dogs and cats there. You might just find yourself a fur-ever friend.
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