Event supports animal adoption awareness
You can think of it as a mixer to meet a new best friend—of the four-legged variety.
Kirkwood Community College and a group of area animal rescue groups have organized a canine “meet and greet” event Saturday, Oct. 25. Rescue and shelter dogs will be available to get acquainted with prospective adoption families from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
In recognition of the Humane Society of the Humane Society of the United States American Adopt-A-Dog Month, Kirkwood Student Life at the Iowa City campus coordinated the event. Area rescue groups will be there with dogs currently available for adoption. Local pet owners can also have their current dog micro-chipped for $20. This technology allows for accurate identification of pets if they are lost, with most veterinary clinics and animal shelters equipped with chip-reading tools.
Connie Marberry of the Kirkwood Iowa City faculty launched the concept and was “so pleased” with the support of the local animal rescue networks.
“If people are not looking for a dog but want to help out, please feel free to stop by and drop off a donation. Dog food (canned or dry, and senior food), leashes, collars, treats, toys, dog pillows, stainless steel dog bowls, large plastic storage containers, peanut butter, hot dogs, cheese, dog igloos, baking soda, bleach, sponges and mops are always needed. If you have any of these items you no longer need or would like to purchase any of these things and donate them, it is greatly appreciated,” she said.
Marberry also emphasized the assistance monetary donations support, as rescue organizations use funds for vaccinations, worming, spay/neuter, dental, grooming and a variety of other medical needs.
Liz Ford of the Iowa City Animal Rescue and Adoption Center said, “Come to the event to meet your new best friend or just say hello to all kinds of wonderful dogs available from our local rescue organizations. We have many wonderful dogs in our community looking for forever homes from Chihuahuas to Great Danes.”
Other participating groups include Safe Haven of Iowa County, Little Paws Dog Rescue from Linn County, Friends of the Animal Center Foundation, Baxter’s Buddies and Mix-and-Match rescue from Johnson County.
The Oct. 25 Dog Meet and Greet is free and open to the public. More information is available from Marberry at (319) 887-3626.