Seniors for Seniors Program Makes Dog Adoption Easy

With a host of older "Man's Best Friends" to choose from, seniors living in the  can adopt a pet from the town's shelter for no adoption fee.

The program, called "Seniors for Seniors," also wavies any additional costs associated with spaying or neutering for a senior 62 and older who adopts a older dog or cat. Seniors who adopt dogs still must pay a $5 license fee. 

“When people consider adopting pets, they usually want a puppy or a kitten,” said Oyster Bay Town Councilman Joseph G. Pinto. “Although cute and ‘moldable,’ they can be a handful...."

Standard adoption fees are $65 for a dog and $59 for a cat.

While specific numbers weren't available, town spokeswoman Phillis Barry said there is an assortment of older dogs and cats available on a regular basis at the town's shelter.

“Older pets have plenty to offer, not the least of which is love,” Pinto said. “I urge you to visit the shelter and meet some of our senior dogs or cats...."

The town's animal shelter, located at 150 Miller Place, Syosset, is open Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m.- 4 p.m. The telephone number is (516) 677-5784.

Photos of some of the animals available for adoption can be viewed at the Town’s Web site, www.oysterbaytown.com or www.petfinder.com/shelters/NY527.html.