Hempstead Town Notebook: Animal Shelter Rated by State

Town Animal Shelter Receives Top Ratings in Two New York State Inspection Reports

The Town of Hempstead Animal Shelter is in better shape than the public thought, according to two inspection reports handed down by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets. The shelter received the highest possible ratings in more than 30 categories, with no deficiencies cited in either report.

The shelter has been the site of several protests in the last year, where residents have voiced their concerns about bloated salaries, inefficient budget management, alleged animal neglect and abuse and corruption.

According to the town, both State reports – the Dog Control Officer Inspection Report and the Municipal Shelter Inspection Report – gave the Animal Shelter "satisfactory" ratings in nearly three dozen categories, which include cleanliness, veterinary care and handling.

The Municipal Animal Shelter Report found that the shelter's housing area and equipment is sanitized regularly, that there is adequate space for all dogs and there is medical care provided when necessary, according to a release from the town.

The Dog Control Officer Inspection Report found that stray dogs are captured and transported safely using sanitized equipment. The report also stated that seizure and disposition records are maintained for all seized dogs.

Animal Shelter Waiving Pet Adoption Fees for St. Patrick's Day

The Hempstead Town Animal Shelter will waive all pet adoption fees during its inaugural "Lucky You, Lucky Me" adoption event on Saturday, March 17, 2012 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

All cats and dogs adopted at this event will receive free spaying/neutering, rabies vaccinations and microchipping. Cats are also tested for feline AIDS/leukemia.

The Hempstead Town Animal Shelter is located at 3320 Beltagh Ave. in Wantagh. For more information, call the shelter at (516) 785-5220 or visit the shelter's website.