Pet lovers will have the chance to adopt a pet, be photographed with their pet and donate items to help homeless animals through events planned by Second Chance Animal Sanctuary.

Second Chance will hold pet adoptions at Sooner Fashion Mall Dec. 2, 3, 9, 10, 16 and 17 starting at 11 a.m.

The adoption fee is $55 and includes all vaccinations, health testings and an ID tag. All pets are spayed or neutered. Second Chance Director Jamie McAloon said they screen adoption applicants carefully.

"We strongly discourage people from giving animals as surprise Christmas gifts," McAloon said. "We do not adopt an animal for a person to give to another. The person who will own the animal must come to see the animal and to make the selection.

"Many shelters see lots of returns about two weeks after Christmas from people who received pets but who can't keep them or are allergic. Our screening process avoids this problem."

One of the shelter's most popular holiday fundraisers gives pet owners the chance to have their pets photographed with Santa Claus. Photographers will be at Ellison's Feed Store, 114 S. Porter, Dec. 2, 9, 16 and 23 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The cost is $11 for two photos. Second Chance also asks for donations to provide for the care of the sanctuary's homeless animals.

The shelter needs wet and dry food, collars, leashes, toys, blankets, kitty litter, pet treats and stainless steel bowls. Donors may bring the gifts to the Christmas tree in the front office of the sanctuary.

"Christmas is the best time to be at Second Chance," McAloon said. "After dealing with cruelty to animals all year, so many good things start to happen. The community is so helpful with donations."

The sanctuary also needs volunteers to help with the photos and adoption events.

Second Chance houses over 150 homeless cats and dogs, and it is a no-kill facility. Those interested in adoptions, donations or volunteering may call 321-1915.

Thursday, November 30, 1995