Pet Adoption Day at your Community

Has anyone done one at theirs, how did you do it?

I am planning my first Pet Adoption Day now in May and I want to make sure I do it right. I am still deciding on what the best course of action is to go with it to maximize my effects from this.

Vala - Does your property require pet deposits? If son, could you waive them for the day for all pets adopted... extra incentive? I think the idea is great!!!! - if I lived there, I would come home with a half dozen new family members!

Yes, we are a very pet friendly community we accept most pets except the ones that are restricted by the city of Aurora and we will be waiving our $250 pet fee if they adopt from Dumb Friends League.

I will also have petCo grooming come out to introduce their service and I am trying to get a dog trainer and a vet out there as well.

So I am thinking what else can I do to make this a grand event, just keep in mind I have no budget so cant spend a dime hehe. I will also be trying to get sponsors with refreshments. The problem is that now everyone are holding back and nobody wants to sponsor anything anymore hehe...

Hi Vala!

Here are some hints I've gotten from properties that have sponsored "Adoption Day":

1. Contact the media. Everyone is looking for a 'feel good' story and local shelters have seen an increase in people giving up their pets to save money. This is a great story, so go for it!

2. See if your residents with pets will get involved! Offer a "Yappyy Hour" the night before for people to mix and mingle with their dogs. Tell them it's "BYOK" (Bring Your Own Kibble) and make it into a potluck for the adults food.

3. Try to get a local photographer to come out that night of the "Yappy Hour" or the day of the Adoption Event and shoot "Pet Portraits". Use a vacant apartment or one a space in your clubroom. This is arranged between you and the photographer, but s/he sells the portrait packages to the residents. You simply offer the space to shoot the portraits.

4. Check with local dog walking services, other groomers, anything and everything pet related in your city to come out to your event. Believe me, with the economy the way it is, they will LOVE the opportunity to get some exposure!

5. Definitely waive your pet fee and/or deposit for anyone who adopts a pet that day. See if the local shelter will also help promote your event through their PR efforts and at their place of business.

6.Some cities have a 'dog whisperer' who might be available to come out as well. That adds a whole new angle to the event and could be really fun!

Have a full wading pool, or two, for the dogs in case it's a hot day. I'd try to get some Frisbees or doggie bandanas ready to hand out (Oriental Trading has to have some that are dirt cheap) for the pet owners.

Think about doing the event again later this summer during the "Dog Days of Summer".

Best of luck to you! What a great event and what a great service!

Lisa T.
www.ApartmentMarketingBlog.com