If you love black cats, today is your lucky day

The Humane Society of South Mississippi is again bursting at the seams, this time with cats and dogs ready to be adopted at special rates throughout August. And, if you’re a fan of a certain color of cat, you’re especially in luck — just for today.

There are about 405 animals in house, and of 199 cats temporarily in homes for foster care, 40 kittens are expected to return to the shelter within two weeks for adoption, said Katie King, HSSM development manager. Add in 60 appointments scheduled over the next two weeks to take in surrendered cats and dogs, plus those brought in daily by animal control officers, and you have a recipe for a population explosion.

To make room for the new residents and to help the current ones find forever homes, HSSM is offering several specials.

For today — Aug. 17 — only, HSSM is waiving adoption fees for all black cats in the shelter between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., in celebration of National Black Cat Appreciation Day. A $5 tag fee is required, and all cats must leave in a pet carrier.

All other cats and kittens are $10 each, and Lonely Hearts dogs — those that have been in the shelter for 30 days or longer — are $10. All other dogs, including puppies and VIPs, are 50 percent off.

All HSSM adoptions include spay/neuter surgery, microchipping, up-to-date vaccinations, a free starter bag of pet food, a free veterinarian exam within seven days of adoption and 30 days of free pet health insurance.

The Humane Society of South Mississippi is at 2615 25th Ave., Gulfport, with phone number 228-863-3354. Regular hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

This story was originally published August 17, 2017 at 10:12 AM with the headline "If you love black cats, today is your lucky day."