In the spirit of the holiday season, the Pearl River County SPCA is temporarily reducing adoption fees for all cats up for adoption. Also, together with Watt’s Veterinary Services, the PRC SPCA is offering an opportunity for residents to get a picture of their pets with Mrs. Claus.
During this time of year, the PRC SPCA experiences a gradual increase in adoption rates of both cats and dogs.
“There is no better time to get a pet than during the holidays,” Maria Diamond, PRC SPCA spokeswoman, said. “Also, as we step into the cold season, it is always nice to have a furry friend to warm you up while relaxing around the house.”
Because dogs are more frequently adopted than cats around this time of year, Diamond and the PRC SPCA are having a “Home for the Holidays” special on all cats at the shelter. To adopt a cat 6 months and older, the adoption fee is $25, while cats less than 6-months-old are $40.
All cats are spayed, neutered, microchipped and vaccinated; all they need is a home for the holidays, Diamond said.
During a previous holiday special, the animal shelter found homes for all but 14 cats. This year, Diamond set the goal of finding homes for all the cats currently at the shelter, which she said is over 50 cats.
“All the cages are full in the cat rooms here and we have cats of all sizes, ages and personalities. They are some great pets and I know people will fall in love with them if they are given the chance,” Diamond said.
The adoption special runs from Nov. 25 to Christmas Day.
For the first time, people can have their pet’s portrait taken with Mrs. Claus at Watt’s Veterinary Service on Dec. 4 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cindy McDonald, PRC SPCA volunteer program manager, said. People can also bring their kids to get pictures of the pet with Mrs. Claus.
After having their pictures taken, customers can choose from a variety of portrait sizes or buy a portrait package for $25, which includes one 8-by-10, two 5-by-7s and eight wallet size portraits. Or, participants can purchase a size package individually for $10.
“All the time you get Christmas cards in the mail of other people’s beautiful pets all dressed up for the holidays, and this is a perfect time to make one for yourself,” McDonald said.
Proceeds will go toward assisting operation costs at the PRC SPCA.
McDonald suggests calling the PRC SPCA to schedule an appointment to get a picture taken with Mrs. Claus. After the photo session, portraits can be picked up at the animal shelter or mailed.
For more information about the portraits, call Cindy McDonald at (601) 749-3562. For those interested in the holiday cat adoption special, call Maria Diamond at (601) 347-3667.