Pet of the Week

During December, Lee County Animal Services joins some 2,000 U.S. pet shelters and adoption centers for Home 4 the Holidays 2007, a national event to raise awareness of the joys of owning shelter-adopted pets. The goal is to get some 350,000 dogs, cats, puppies, kittens and other companion pets into loving, adoptive homes. The local goal is 300 pets. Each pet adopted this month goes to its new homes with a special gift in addition to the services normally provided with each adoption. Adoption fees are reduced to $50 for dogs (normally $65) and $40 for cats (normally $50). The fee includes spay/neuter surgery, vaccinations appropriate for each animal's age, flea treatment, worming, heartworm test for dogs six months or older, feline aids and leukemia test for cats, a county license for pets three months or older, collar, training DVD, nationally registered microchip pet ID, and a gift pack of toys and treats. The total adoption package is valued at more than $400. Here are some of the many animals ready for forever homes:

>>Ellie Mae (381028) is a 3-yearold German shepherd. She's smaller than average, making her an ideal house pet. >>Daisy (338122) is a three-year-old silky terrier who was surrendered by her owner due to a divorce. She sits on command and can jump from the ground into your arms. >>Rosie (380961) is an older cocker spaniel who wound up at the shelter when her owner died. She is a happy, loving girl whose maturity will make her a pet that will fit easily into a new home. >>Bandit (267024) is a sweet, five-year-old border collie whose owner turned him in because the landlord didn't allow dogs. He loves kids. >>Cello (380030) is a two-year-old, stray hound mix who is gentle and loving. >>Little Piccolo (381846) is a twomonth old mix breed puppy. He is a happy boy who loves attention.