OCALA, FL (352today.com) – North Central Florida saw its first significant impact of hurricane season with Tropical Storm Debby. Marion County Animal Services (MCAS) took this opportunity to share some tips on keeping pets safe through future storms.

If you’ve lost a pet or found one, MCAS recommends signing up for Petco’s Love Lost program. This program uses information about when and where the pet was lost and searches through multiple databases of found animals to help locate a match. You can search by area, date, photo, and microchip.

Microchipping is available at the MCAS shelter for just $15 without an appointment from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. The shelter is located at 5701 SE 66th St. in Ocala.

Owners of lost pets can also check the MCAS online kennel, which refreshes hourly. If you find your pet on the site, you can contact MCAS by phone at 352-671-8700 or via email after hours to be reunited.

Other options for finding a lost pet or reporting a found pet include Nextdoor and Pawboost. Local lost and found pet Facebook groups are also a good resource for sharing information.

The adoptable pets at the MCAS shelter would love a safe, comfortable home to weather future storms. These pets of the week are just a few of the sweet animals that could become your hurricane buddy.

TAKE ME HOME THIS WEEK – AUGUST 8, 2024

Ace is a 2-year-old male, mixed breed. He doesn’t do well with cats but is playful with a lot of energy. Ace would love to find a place with a large yard or farm so he can run around! Courtesy: MCAS
Persephone is a 6-year-old female pitty mix. She is shy, but playful when she warms up to you. Persephone gets nervous around large groups, so she’s the perfect companion for a small family! Courtesy: MCAS
Puddin’ is a 3-year-old female Boxer mix. She has been in several play groups and loves to show how energetic she is. Puddin’ does need some leash work, but with the right training, she would be a great walking/running companion! Courtesy: MCAS
Need a pal to watch pickleball with? How about a nap partner after a tough game on the courts? Meet Jagger. His larger-than-life personality leads to shenanigans true to the orange cat stereotype. Courtesy: MCAS

All animals are currently just $5 to adopt. Cats are BOGO, meaning you can bring home two paw-some friends for the price of one.

The adoption fee includes a county license, up-to-date vaccinations, microchipping, and spay/neuter surgery.

You can view more animals available for adoption on the Marion County Animal Services website and Facebook page.