Animal Groups Plan Dog Adoption Day

Several animal rights organizations will sponsor a Dog Adoption Day next week at which residents can learn how to purchase and care for a pet.

About 20 of the hundreds of homeless dogs from shelters countywide will be on display, but organizers will not sell them until prospective owners show they have been educated on the importance of rabies immunization, licensing, safety and spaying and neutering.

Education on adopting cats will also be available, although no cats will be on display.

Those seeking to purchase a pet will be directed to one of the adoption and rescue organizations throughout the county.

Patrick Musone, education officer with the county animal regulation department, said those who adopt a fertile pet will receive a voucher worth $20 for cats and $40 for dogs for spaying and neutering fees.

“It usually covers about half the cost,” he said.

Musone said the cost of adopting a pet varies, but it is minimal and is needed to help keep the shelters open.

The event will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 24 at the Ventura County Government Center, 800 S. Victoria Ave., Ventura.

Agencies represented include the Humane Society of Ventura County, the Spay and Neuter Animal Network, Concerned People for Animals, Humane Animal Rescue Team and LIFE (Life Is for Everyone) Animal Rescue.