For Immediate Release
September 27, 2002

Contact: Kathy Francis
(714) 935-6301

(Orange) – Pet ownership can help older Americans lead more healthier, happier and active lives that those who don’t own pets, according to recent research. To promote the positive relationships between seniors and pets, Orange County Animal Care Services (ACS), on Saturday, October 26 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. will celebrate “Teach an Old Dog New Tricks,” a special day dedicated to mature pets and older Americans at the Animal Care Center located at 561 The City Drive South in Orange.

In celebration of October’s “Adopt-a-Shelter-Dog” month, Dr. Julie Ryan, Director of ACS created “Teach an Old Dog New Tricks Day” to demonstrate the long-lasting benefits for both people and pets as well as to encourage seniors and members of the community to participate in pet adoptions.

“It is my hope that  ‘Teach an Old Dog New Tricks’ will help encourage Orange County residents to participate in adopting pets of all ages to help put an end to pet discrimination. Every animal, whether young or old, purebred or not, deserves an equal chance for a loving home,” said Dr. Ryan. 

Sponsored by the Animal Health Foundation of California and IDEXX Laboratories, the event will feature demonstrations on how to train the mature dog as well as information on pet adoptions and animal care. Additionally, 20 qualified seniors who choose to adopt mature pets five years and older will be awarded free Veterinary Pet Insurance Wellness Policies on behalf of the Animal Health Foundation of California.

Orange County Animal Care Services offers numerous services to assist animals and people alike: rescuing injured or lost animals, returning lost pets safely to their homes and adopting new animals into new, loving families.  For more information about the “Teach an Old Dog New Tricks” event or Orange County Animal Care Services, call (714) 935-6301 or visit the ACS Web site at www.ocpetinfo.com

###