Joplin Holds Mass Adoption For Pets Displaced In Tornado

NewsOn6.com

JOPLIN, Missouri -- Animals displaced by the May 22 tornado that tore through Joplin are up for adoption in a Joplin Humane Society and ASPCA event June 25 and 26.

"We have about 600 pets that need homes," said Emily Schneider, a spokesperson for the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

"We need all the help we can get."

The Humane Society has been housing and caring for the animals for a month, and are now focusing on finding homes for the remaining dogs and cats. Adoption fees are waived for the special event which will be held from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at 140 E. Emperor Lane.

Fill out an adoption application form in advance for dogs and cats

"The outpouring of support from the local community has helped us connect hundreds of displaced animals with their owners, and we thank everyone for their heroic efforts," added Karen Aquino, executive director of Joplin Humane Society.

"Our goal now is to find families who will adopt the remaining four-legged tornado survivors, which is in everyone's best interests."

6/22/2011 Related Story: Joplin Marks One Month Since Deadly Tornado As Death Toll Rises

Adoptable animals will be spayed/neutered, micro-chipped, vaccinated, and provided an ID tag free of charge. Additionally, all the dogs have been evaluated by the ASPCA animal behavior team to assess temperament and personality in order to make the best possible match with potential adopters.

Both agencies are lining up other activities as well, such as tours of the ASPCA Mobile Animal Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) Unit, a specially-designed vehicle outfitted with state-of-the-art forensics tools as well as medical equipment tailored for animal patients.

In addition, the Missouri Emergency Response Service team will conduct large animal rescue demonstrations, and there will be food, music and other family-friendly activities.

The ASPCA provided the Joplin Humane Society with a $100,000 grant to support disaster relief and recovery efforts, and has established a $500,000 grant fund for animal welfare groups affected by disasters across the country.

Potential adopters need to bring a government-issued photo ID and proof of address.