Pet Adoptathon 2008 Finds Families for 20,090 Homeless Animals

On May 3, 2008 and May 4, 2008, thousands of shelters around the world from Bolivia to South Africa joined North Shore Animal League America in our largest cooperative pet adoption event – Pet Adoptathon 2008. During this amazing weekend, over 2,285 shelters joined the Animal League in staying open for 36 straight hours saving as many lives and finding loving homes for as many pets as possible.

At Pet Adoptathon headquarters in Port Washington, NY, the League found homes for found loving families for 600 homeless animals: 392 canines and 208 felines! There was fun for the whole family including an appearance by Mya, a performance by the cast of Chicago, and the Purina Incredible Dog Team, face painting, raffles, sports memorabilia for auction and the grand prize – tickets to see a performance of Chicago on Broadway, a meet and greet with the cast, hotel, dinner and limo, plus a year's supply of Purina pet food!

But the fun and life-saving efforts didn't stop there. We also had a special appearance by colorful pet rescuers and animal activists, Rescue Ink, who spread the word about owner responsibility and spoke out against animal cruelty.

In addition, we were fortunate enough to have a special appearance by MUTTS comic strip creator, Patrick McDonnell, who was on hand to sign copies of his new book, "Shelter Stories. Love. Guaranteed," which is a compilation of true stories that depict the real tales of adopted pets submitted by their adoring owners throughout the world.

Also by Mr. McDonnell's side were his beloved characters, Mooch and Earl who greeted and delighted adopters.

This year, we are happy to report that Pet Adoptathon 2008 found loving families for 20,090 homeless animals! From the bottom of our hearts, thank you to all who participated in making Pet Adoptathon successful, and for helping to save so many lives. We couldn't do it without you!