Today is National Pet Adoption Day and one local animal shelter in Panora has several animals looking for homes.

Marianne Reeves with Panora Protecting Even The Strays (PETS) says they adopt 300 animals annually and whenever an animal is brought into the shelter, they are spayed or neutered, microchipped and checked for illness or diseases. She points out they have a wide range of ages of cats and dogs. Reeves advises anyone wanting a younger pet to be aware of their vulnerabilities.

“Young, young animals whether it’s puppies or kittens are very fragile. Folks don’t always think about that because they’re busy, and active, and fun, and playful. But at the same time they’re very fragile in terms of their health.”

Reeves says anyone who wants to adopt a pet can fill out an application on their website, which is reviewed and a Panora PETS volunteer will make contact with the applicant and schedule a face-to-face meeting. She explains they are very involved every step of the adoption, including suggestions for food, health issues, cat litter brands. Reeves reminds pet owners that it will take time for your new pet to be completely acclimated.

“And I think that that is really key to being successful. The animal needs to really get used to your sounds, and smells in the house, different noises, and such. I mean that’s all something that puts them at ease.”

To see the adoptable animals, go to https://www.panorapets.com/.