Residents encouraged to adopt a pet

If you are looking to adopt a pet this spring, visit Airdrie Global Foods on April 9 from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The pet store will be hosting an adopt-a-thon in conjunction with Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society (AARCS).

“We would love to generate interest and awareness for our group, as well as try and find some forever homes for our adoptable animals,” said Allison Hryniw, volunteer and events coordinator with AARCS.

The Society will bring three or four dogs and “a cat or two” to the event to introduce them to potential owners.

“The animals we have are from foster homes and have the resources needed to come into a new permanent home,” said Hryniw.

However, she added that people need to be sure about adopting and research the animal they want to take home.

“Although dogs are adorable when you first bring them home they are a lot of work. When adopting an animal, remember to put a lot if thought into it, a pet’s a lifetime of thought. There is nothing more rewarding or fulfilling, in my opinion, but it requires a lot of effort and time,” she said. “Remember that exercise is just as important to your dog as regular training - be prepared to walk your dog for an hour a day. My advice is to go in with all the love in your heart, but bring a level head; always remember consistency, exercise, and love.”

The mission of AARCS is to improve the lives of animals by rescuing and providing sanctuary to abandoned, surrendered or abused animals. Ninety-nine per cent of the animals at AARCS are brought in from the First Nations communities.

“We have developed close relationships with these communities to assist them in achieving healthy and respectful relationships with animals,” said Hryniw.

“We promote responsible and compassionate guardianship, and advocate on behalf of all animals.”

James Froese, owner of Global Pet Foods in Airdrie, said he is thrilled to partner with AARCS and other non-profit rescue societies to find needy pets new homes.

“If people are thinking of getting a pet, I strongly suggest they get one that needs a home,” he said. “People need to know that with a pet comes responsibility but sometimes these pets would have been euthanized without these societies and I know people with adopted pets - they are fantastic and well-behaved animals.”

Anyone who adopts a pet during one of the upcoming adopt-a-thons wills receive their first bag of cat or dog food free from Airdrie Global pets.

For upcoming dates of adopt-a-thons, visit “Airdrie Global Pet Foods” on Facebook.