June is National Adopt-A-Cat Month!
According to the American Humane Association, spring is a very busy time for animal shelters due to an influx of animals coming in, particularly kittens. There are a few nonprofit animal shelters in the area that have a four-legged furry friend waiting to be adopted or in need of supplies such as food, litter, or toys.
Local Nonprofits to Adopt a Cat
Furry Friends Refuge is an Iowa nonprofit serving animals in need. Furry Friends is a no-kill shelter meaning that no animal that can be saved will be killed.
1211 Grand Ave.
West Des Moines, IA 50265
(515) 222-0009
Animal Lifeline of Iowa is a special needs no kill shelter. Animal Lifeline's cats and dogs arrive injured, handicapped, in need of immediate medical attention, orphaned or pregnant and nursing; animals that would not survive without the shelter. They have an upcoming event: 2015 Pup Crawl and Scavenger Hunt-Saturday June 20, 2015.
4521 SE 14th
Des Moines, IA
515-285-PETS
Animal Rescue League of Iowa is Iowa's largest nonprofit animal shelter. The ARL was founded in 1926 and has many programs that serve people and pets which include pet adoption, humane education, pet behavior training, spay/neuter, animal cruelty intervention and much more. There are several ARL locations throughout Des Moines, you can go to their website for information on all locations: arl-iowa.org/about-us/default.aspx
ARL Main
5452 NE 22nd St
Des Moines, IA 50313
(515) 473-9101
Considering Pet Adoption?
Here is the American Humane Society's "Top Ten List" of things to consider.
- If you're thinking of adopting a cat, consider taking home two.
- Find a cat whose personality compliments yours.
- Pick out a veterinarian ahead of time and schedule a visit within the first few days following adoption.
- Make sure everyone in the house is prepared to have a cat before it comes home.
- Budget for the short and long term costs of a cat.
- Stock up on supplies before the cat arrives.
- Cat proof your home.
- Go slowly when introducing your cat to new friends and family.
- Be sure to include your new pet in your family emergency plan.
- If you are considering giving a cat as a gift, make sure the recipient is an active participant in the adoption process.
Young Professionals Connection (YPC)
The Young Professionals Connection (YPC) promotes an environment that attracts and retains young professionals in Greater Des Moines (DSM). YPC connects young professionals to each other and to the community through social, civic, charitable and professional development endeavors. YPC members have unique opportunities to grow personally and professionally and forge lasting relationships. They engage, connect and form a foundation for their future in DSM. YPC is an initiative of the Greater Des Moines Partnership.