October is National Animal Safety and Protection Month, and the Burington County Animal Shelter is inviting residents of all ages to a special open house focused on the safety of humans and their pets.
Family Safety Day at the Burlington County Animal Shelter will be held on Saturday, Oct. 11, from 12 to 4 PM, at the shelter at 35 Academy Drive, Westampton. The event will showcase adoptable dogs and cats, as well as many county and local first responders, who will be present to share safety information.
There will also be safety-related activities, demonstrations and opportunities for children to read to some of the shelter dogs and cats.
All adoption fees for adult animals are being waived during the event. Residents can learn more about the adoptable pets and complete an adoption application in advance by visiting the animal shelter website, https://www.co.burlington.nj.us/168/Animal-Shelter .
“Burlington County prioritizes the safety of not just our residents but also their pets,” said Burlington County Commissioner Tyler Burrell, the liaison to the animal shelter. “Family Safety Day at the Shelter is a great place to learn a variety of safety tips ranging from how to interact with pet dogs and cats, what precautions to take during Halloween and other holidays, to preventing fires and preparing for floods, storms and other emergencies. While at the shelter, visitors can also meet some of the loveable dogs and cats that are still waiting to find their forever homes.”
The open house is being organized by the Animal Shelter in partnership with Friends of the Burlington County Animal Shelter. Some of the other expected participants include:
- The Burlington County Sheriff’s Office
- Burlington County Health Department
- Burlington County Fire Marshal’s Office
- Burlington County Office of Emergency Management
- Burlington County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)
- Burlington County Animal Response Team (CART)
- Burlington City Police Department
“Dogs and cats aren’t just pets; they’re also family members. Family Safety Day is a way to share valuable information about our own safety but also the pets we love,” said Burlington County Commissioner Deputy Director Allison Eckel, the liaison to the County Department of Public Safety. “We’re excited the Burlington County Animal Shelter is organizing this event and bringing together a great team of first responders, volunteers and public safety officials.”
Animal lovers can also learn more about the volunteer opportunities at the shelter and other ways that people can help the animals at the shelter find new homes.
“Whether you’re fostering an animal at home, volunteering your time, donating needed supplies or sharing social media posts about the adoptable pets, it all helps and can make a tremendous difference for the animals at the shelter,” said Commissioner Randy Brollo.