With the holiday season underway, Hempstead town officials are hoping residents will open their hearts and homes to a four-legged friend.
As part of its annual “Home for the Holidays” adoption initiative, the Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter is waiving all adoption fees from Nov. 24 through Jan. 4. The program, now expanded through a new partnership with the Milleridge Inn in Jericho, includes a free $50 Milleridge gift card for every family that adopts a pet.
“We are thankful to the Milleridge Inn for supporting this adoption initiative,” Town Supervisor John Ferretti said at a festive launch event on Nov. 20. “Few things are more uplifting than the joy of adopting a pet, and I encourage families to take advantage of this great opportunity — and then celebrate the season with a holiday meal at the festive Milleridge Inn.”
Ferretti was also joined by Trip, Petey and Indy–three festivally dressed up dogs who were treated to a special holiday meal at the Milleridge Inn. In addition to having their adoption fees waived, all adopted animals will be spayed or neutered, vaccinated and microchipped at no cost. Standard state licensing fees still apply.
Milleridge Inn owner and president Butch Yamali, who described himself as an animal lover, said the collaboration was a natural fit. “Every dog and cat at the Town’s shelter deserves to spend the holidays with a family,” Yamali said. “We’re happy to support adopters by offering a complimentary holiday dinner gift certificate to anyone who welcomes a pet into their home during this program.”
For the launch, the Milleridge team set up a special pet-friendly banquet, with veterinarian-approved Thanksgiving dishes prepared by the chef and served by waitstaff.
Town officials at the announcement included Deputy Supervisor Dorothy Goosby, Councilmen Dennis Dunne, Tom Muscarella and Chris Schneider, Councilwomen Missy Miller and Laura Ryder, Town Clerk Kate Murray and Receiver of Taxes Jeanine Driscoll.
“This holiday season is shaping up to be the most heartwarming yet,” Ferretti said. “When you’re looking to bring home a new companion, always adopt — don’t shop.”
