Burlington County senior citizen residents can adopt a companion for free

Burlington County senior citizens can now have a free furry companion from the Burlington County Animal Shelter.

Freeholder Mary Ann O’Brien today unveiled the shelter’s “Free Pets for Seniors” program, through which all county senior citizens age 60 years and older may adopt a dog or cat free of charge. This program is imaged after the very successful “Free Pets for Vets” program that Freeholder O’Brien started in January of this year.

“It is well known that companion animals can help to reduce stress, depression, anxiety and loneliness,” said O’Brien. “We are making it easier for Burlington County Senior Citizens to provide animals in need with a loving home while giving seniors a furry companion.”

The cost of adopting from the shelter is anywhere from $45 to $100, depending on the type and the age of the animal. All animals are neutered or spayed before being adopted out.

Seniors interested in adopting will need to fill out an application form and show proof of age and residency. The typical waiting period runs anywhere from one to seven days, depending upon the animal.

“Anyone in the market for a pet should consider the shelter,” said O’Brien. “Visitors are welcomed to walk through the kennels, and acquaint themselves with our ‘occupants’ who are looking for new and loving homes.”

The Animal Shelter is located on Pioneer Boulevard in the County’s Westampton Complex, off Woodlane Road.

It has hours every day but Sundays and holidays. The phone number is (609) 265–5073.