Thinking of a pet for the holidays? Think pet certificate instead

King County Animal Care and Services has gift certificates for last minute shoppers who want to give the gift of a pet through this responsible pet ownership program.

Rather than buying or bringing home a pet for the holidays, give a gift certificate and let your loved one find the pet that is just right for them at the King County Animal Care shelters. The gift certificate can be used to defray costs the pet adoption costs which range from $25 - $75.

"Owning a pet is major commitment and should not be done on a whim," said Al Dams, acting manager for King County Animal Care and Services. "This program lets animal lovers give the gift of adoption to the homeless pets in our shelters in a thoughtful way and assures that they are placed in loving homes with responsible owners who are ready for the responsibility."

Residents can receive more information about this program or volunteer opportunities, or register for the training by e-mailing pets@kingcounty.gov.

People interested in picking up a gift certificate can visit one of our two King County Animal Care and Services locations:

• King County 's Kent Animal Shelter, 21615 64th Ave. S. The hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. On Thursday, the hours are noon to 6 p.m.
• King County's Eastside Pet Adoption Center (Crossroads), 821 - 164th Ave. N.E., Bellevue. The hours are 2 to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and noon to 6 p.m. on Saturday.