By Jessica Dillon
The SPCA of Martinsville and Henry County has launched a special adoption event to help more dogs find homes, with reduced adoption fees through June 23.
The promotion focuses on dogs because they have been slower to be adopted than other animals, according to Chief Operations Officer Catherine Gupton. The shelter currently has 44 dogs and puppies available for adoption, including many large-breed dogs.
“This adoption event is focused specifically on dogs, because our dogs don’t really seem to be having much success in the adoption field recently,” Gupton said.
Through Tuesday, June 23, adoption fees are $20 for adult dogs and $50 for select puppies.
“We have a couple who are on medical hold who can go,” Gupton said.
The shelter currently has puppies that are nearly 4 months old as well as some that are about 3½ months old.
Gupton highlighted two dogs currently available for adoption.
“Dipper came in on Boxing Day (Dec. 26) as a stray is a black lab mix. Willow is one of our slightly older girls. She’s about five and a half. We’ve had her there since January.”
Gupton said both dogs are healthy, enjoy play groups and like spending time in the pool. Dipper also regularly participates in the shelter’s volunteer “Doggy Day Out” program.
The SPCA also plans to participate in a one-day adoption event in Roanoke.
“The Christmas event was so successful that they are calling it the Mega Adoption Event Summer Edition.”
Gupton said the shelter plans to bring as many dogs and puppies as volunteers can accommodate.
“We generally try to take as many dogs and puppies as we have volunteers for.”
The shelter is seeking volunteers to help with the event. Those interested can contact Gupton at 276-638-7297.
“We are in need of blankets, towels, sheets, pillowcases, anything like that. As always, canned food and Dawn dish soap.”
Gupton said no additional meet-and-greet events are planned before the adoption event.
“Everybody will be available for viewing at the SPCA.”
The Henry County SPCA is located at 132 Joseph Martin Highway in Martinsville.
