Put a Spring in your Pet's Step at ASPCA's Block Party in Harlem

Community Invited to Take Advantage of <u>Free</u> On-site Pet Health Services
April 13, 2011

WHO: The ASPCA® (The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) Mobile Spay/Neuter Clinics are hosting a Block Party at the Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building Plaza in Harlem on Saturday, April 16, 2011 to increase awareness about the importance of spaying and neutering New York City's furry friends. The day-long event offers free pet services for the community, along with giveaways, a special "Kids Zone", and the opportunity to speak with ASPCA experts about pet health.

"The ASPCA encourages all pet parents to get their cat or dog spayed or neutered," said Aimee Christian, vice president of spay/neuter operations for the ASPCA. "In addition to providing significant health and behavioral benefits to pets, spaying and neutering can be an important step in reducing overpopulation and homelessness."

WHAT: Free Services Available:

  • Spay/neuter surgery will be offered to all pets
  • Microchipping and vaccinations

The day-long event will also feature:

  • Adoptable Pets from the ASPCA
  • Pet Giveaways (food samples, leashes, collars)
  • An "Ask the Experts" booth with advice about pet care and training
  • Dog Licensing
  • A "Kids Zone" with face painting and tasty treats
  • Opportunities to win a free weekend stay at pet-friendly hotel Aloft Harlem, a Posh Paw gift certificate, an iPod Shuffle and more

WHY: Although New York City has made great strides in reducing the number of homeless animals euthanized due to the lack of loving homes, more than 40,000 homeless pets enter New York City shelters each year. In 2010, the ASPCA spayed and neutered more than 30,000 cats and dogs on its mobile spay/neuter clinics.

WHEN: Saturday, April 16, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (please arrive by 7 a.m. for spay/neuter services)

WHERE: The Adam Clayton Powell Jr. State Office Building Plaza, 163 W. 125th Street (intersection of 125th Street and Adam Clayton Powell Boulevard), Harlem.

DETAILS: For more information, please call 877-SPAY-NYC (bilingual, 24 hours a day), or visit www.aspca.org/877spaynyc.