SPCA Tampa Bay is waiving adoption fees on Sunday, May 26 for fifteen all-star dogs to conclude the shelter’s month-long Mental Health Awareness Month initiative. These fifteen adoptable pups were selected by SPCA Tampa Bay staff and volunteers who have developed their own special connections with these animals during their time at the shelter. SPCA Tampa Bay’s All-Star Adoption Event is sponsored by M.E. Wilson.
When: Adoption hours on Sunday, May 26 are from 10am to 6pm.
Where: SPCA Tampa Bay, located at 9099 130th Avenue North, Largo, Florida 33773.
How: View adoptable dogs at spcatampabay.org/dogs or visit the shelter in Largo. Potential adopters are encouraged to arrive early and bring a leash or carrier that’s appropriate for your new pet. Some dogs are excluded from this adoption event. Only 25 dogs with special baseball cards on their kennels are included in this fee-waived adoption event.
There is an unbreakable link between humans and animals for better mental health. The unconditional love and unwavering loyalty that animals provide can often be the key to unlocking better mental health for many individuals. The bond between humans and animals goes beyond companionship – it can be a source of solace and support during difficult times. SPCA Tampa Bay calls this unique bond “Humanimality.”
Owning or caring for an animal can significantly impact your mental health. Scientific research has shown that interacting with animals can have a profound impact on our well-being. The release of oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone,” increases when we pet or spend time with animals. This hormone plays a crucial role in reducing stress and promoting feelings of trust and bonding.
It’s not just humans who benefit from the bond with animals; the animals, too, experience healing through these relationships. The mutual exchange of love, care, and companionship creates a symbiotic dynamic where both parties can find comfort and support in each other’s presence.
If you are not able to participate in SPCA Tampa Bay’s All-Star Adoption Event on May 25, or are unable to have a pet of your own, you can still receive many of the same mental health benefits from animal companionship by applying to become a volunteer at the For-All shelter in Largo and spend time walking dogs, cuddling cats, or fostering animals in need. The simple act of stroking a cat or playing fetch with a dog can lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. This natural remedy is easily accessible and can have a profound impact on overall mental well-being for both humans and animals.
If you’re looking to improve your mental well-being, consider welcoming a furry friend into your life or volunteering your time with homeless animals at SPCA Tampa Bay. The unconditional love and companionship they offer can make a world of difference in your overall happiness and mental health.
SPCA Tampa Bay’s staff and volunteers can assist families in finding a pet that’s right for their family’s lifestyle. The adoption team focuses on matching families and all pets for long-term success. Past fee-waived adoption events have helped animals find new loving homes in only a few days, which frees resources for SPCA Tampa Bay to provide care and shelter for animals in our community. SPCA Tampa Bay cares for more than 8,000 animals each year, including injured wildlife.
For more information on SPCA Tampa Bay and all their adoptable pets, visit spcatampabay.org and click on adoptions, or call 727-586-3591.
For Mental Health Awareness Month resources, community stories, and ways to get involved with animals at SPCA Tampa Bay, visit spcatampabay.org/mentalhealth.
