The Lake Sarasota Community Blog

From the Sheriff: Sarasota County Animal Services is urgently seeking adoptive families for the dozens of dogs that have filled shelter kennels while they await forever homes. The number of adoptable dogs coming into the shelter is far outpacing the number of dogs being adopted. Animal Services has contacted other shelters and rescues to try to alleviate the overcrowding, but the other facilities are full themselves or recently took in animals from nearby natural disasters. Last weekend’s Adopt-a-thon placed 12 dogs with loving owners, but their adoptions did not free up enough space for additional incoming animals. Sarasota County Animal Services is open Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and is located at 8451 Bee Ridge Road in Sarasota. Call (941) 861-9500 for more information or visit  www.SarasotaSheriff.org  and under “Public Interest” click Animal Services. The page includes a link to view some of the animals that are available for adoption.

Compassionate Care Clinic 12.11.10 On Saturday, Dec. 11, dogs and cats being cared for by owners in financial need can receive FREE vaccinations and routine healthcare from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Clark Road Animal Clinic . Note:  Owners must apply by filling out a form; referrals are mandatory. Information and app forms are available at petpages.com , or call 941 922-5007. All forms must be received by Dec. 1, 2010. Owners are encouraged to make a donation for services received.