Restrictions lifted; cat adoptions resume at Prince William County Animal Shelter

As a result of laboratory tests, and in consultation with a university shelter veterinary program, Prince William County Animal Shelter has resumed cat adoptions and surrenders.

Adoptions were halted Sept. 22 after the Prince William Shelter received laboratory results confirming that Calicivirus had been introduced and a majority of cats in the shelter had been infected.  Calicivirus, known as Calici, is a highly contagious virus that causes upper respiratory and oral disease in cats.

With the restrictions lifted, eight adult cats at the Shelter now are waiting for a forever home with a loving individual or family.

Five reasons to ADOPT a cat from the Prince William County Animal Shelter:

1. You will give a deserving cat a home. Your compassion will give a Shelter cat a safe loving home, and
your adoption fee will help more animals in need.

2. You will have help finding a devoted cat. Every animal at the Shelter receives individualized behavioral assessments and enrichment. Our staff learns as much as possible about each animal so they can help adopters find the perfect pet for their family and lifestyle.

3. You will save money. At the Shelter, your cat’s adoption fee includes health screening and veterinary examination, behavior screening and evaluations, vaccinations, microchip identification and registration, discounted spay or neuter services, and flea/tick/mite treatment as needed. You will receive a voucher good for one free health exam and consultation with a participating community veterinarian with whom you can start a relationship for your adopted pet’s health and wellness.

4. When you adopt, you give a cat a chance at a better life. Your cat will thank you constantly with affection and by becoming your new best friend.

5. You will support responsible pet ownership. When searching for an animal companion, always consider the source and the support you will get following the adoption if you have any questions. The Shelter, for example, has staff that can answer questions for you before and after you take your pet home. Free classes on responsible pet ownership, obedience and dog-walk socialization for adopted Shelter animals are offered.

For more information on adoptions, or for questions, contact the Animal Shelter at 703-792-6465.

The Shelter is located at 14807 Bristow Road (off Route 234 across from the Prince William County Landfill). Hours are Tuesday - Friday: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Sunday: Noon to 4 p.m.

Adoptions and viewing of animals ceases 1/2 hour prior to closing each day! You may also visit the Animal Shelter website at http://www.pwcgov.org/animalshelter