Sunday Pet Adoptions Come to Hillsborough County Animal Services

By Marti Ryan, Hillsborough County Animal Services

In an effort to save more animals and better serve the community, Hillsborough County Animal Services is modifying operations to open on Sundays for pet adoptions starting Sept. 25.

To kick off new Sunday hours, the public is invited to join the "Ice Cream Social Sunday" celebration at the shelter (440 N. Falkenburg Road, Tampa) on Sept. 25. The event will feature special one-day only adoption prices, tips on training and veterinary care for responsible ownership, volunteering, and more. Complimentary ice cream from Blue Bell Creameries will be served from noon until 2 p.m. (or while supplies last). 

Sundays are traditionally a high-volume day for pet shelter adoptions.

"This is something we've wanted to do for a very long time," said Hillsborough County Animal Services Operation Director, Dennis McCullough. "We're very much a community organization and a work-in-progress on behalf of the animals. When people see what we have to offer, and the services that our staff and volunteers work to provide for these pets, people want to help us save lives."

Animal Services has also streamlined the application process for better customer service.  Prospective pet adopters will be asked to provide valid photo identification and proof of address (such as a utility or other bill).   With the addition of new Sunday hours, individuals and families enjoying time off together can browse the County kennels overflowing with loveable dogs, cats, puppies, kittens and other pets.

For one low price, adopters at Hillsborough County Animal Services take home rescued pets that are fully spayed/neutered, micro-chipped, vaccinated for rabies, and issued a Hillsborough County tag. 

Dog adopters will also receive a welcome letter from the American Kennel Club (AKC).   The County shelter has joined the AKC Canine Partners™ for a new program designed especially for mixed breeds, which offers agility training, health care, and other benefits.

In addition to pet adoptions, shelter visitors on Sundays may also search for lost pets, purchase pet registrations/rabies tags, and bring in donations for needy shelter pets.   However, the intake or drop-off gate for animal surrender will not be open on Sundays.

Newly modified hours of operation for Hillsborough County Animal Services are as follows (note: adoption desk closes 30 minutes prior to the shelter daily):

Tuesday – Friday:  9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Saturday:  9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Sunday:  11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

For more information, contact Hillsborough County Animal Services at (813) 744-5660 or online at hillsboroughcounty.org/animalservices.