Sarasota County Humane Society Launches New Veterans Adoption Program

December 16, 2020 – Sarasota

In an effort to bring joy during the holiday season, the Humane Society of Sarasota County (HSSC) has partnered with an anonymous donor to offer free pet adoptions for veterans and active-duty military personnel.

The newly launched program, which will run until December 31,2020, aims to connect veterans and active-duty personnel in the community, and shelter pets in need of homes. 

“For many people, the holidays can add stress and anxiety. For those who may suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder and similar challenges, the holidays can be especially debilitating,” said Anna Gonce, Executive Director of the Humane Society of Sarasota County. “The Humane Society of Sarasota County recognizes the incredibly important role that pets play in our lives, and that is why we are thrilled to announce a new adoption program for active military service personnel and veterans. As a thank you for their dedicated service, made possible by the HSSC team and the generosity of an anonymous donor, veterans will now be able to adopt a pet for free until the end of the year.”

According to information provided on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website, “Studies have shown that the bond between people and their pets can increase fitness, lower stress, and bring happiness to their owners. Some of the health benefits of having a pet include decreased blood pressure, decreased cholesterol levels, decreased triglyceride levels, decreased feelings of loneliness, increased opportunities for exercise and outdoor activities, increased opportunities for socialization.”

All HSSC pets are spayed or neutered before leaving the shelter and given preliminary vaccinations and a bag of food. To view available pets, or learn more about this program or any others, visit www.hssc.org/adoption/ and contact Tracy Stoddard at 941.955.4131 x106.