Pet adoption program meant to help seniors find a friend

Senior animals have a hard time getting adopted at local animal shelters. Approximately 20 to 30 percent of the dogs and cats that come through the Ventura County Animal Regulation shelter in Camarillo are 5 years old or older.

The Camarillo shelter is offering an adoption discount fee for seniors age 55 and older who adopt a senior animal from the shelter. The regular $125 adoption price will be reduced to $75 and will still include spaying/neutering, licensing, microchip implant, rabies shot, a certificate for a free veterinarian exam at the vet of choice and six free dog obedience lessons for canines.

To qualify for the program, the senior must show proof of age and reside in Ventura County.

Adult animals often already know how to live harmoniously with humans and other animals. They are usually trained and don’t chew or scratch on furniture. Older dogs of

ten come with some

obedience training.

They are quieter and

have less intense exercise needs. Senior animals will also not

grow any larger and

any behavior challenges or health considerations will be apparent.

A list of senior animals will be posted at the shelter daily and can be viewed at www.vcar.us.

Public hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, closed Tuesday, noon to 7 p.m. Wednesday and 3 to 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday.

The shelter is at 600 Aviation Drive, inside the Camarillo Airport.