Black Cat Weekend 10/16 & 10/17 in Loudoun County, VA

Adopt a Black Cat October 16-17
October 6, 2010 – Waterford, VA – The Loudoun County Animal Shelter is looking to bring some good luck to homeless black cats during the “Black Cat Weekend,” October 16-17.
During the “Black Cat Weekend”, October 16-17, all black cats adopted from the Loudoun County Animal Shelter will be spayed/neutered for free (if necessary). That means that kittens under 6 months of age will have a $40 adoption fee, all cats ages 6 months to 7 years will have be $20, and all cats over 7 years will only be $10.
Black cats are the least likely to be adopted from shelters, as their red, gray, and tabby cousins are often more visually appealing to potential adopters. And persistent myths about black cats bringing bad luck sometimes make families choose another kitty to add to the family. Of course the “unlucky” black cat is just a superstition – in fact, in Europe black cats are considered to bring good luck, while white cats are thought to be the unlucky ones.
Black cats have also fallen victim to urban legends, with many animal shelters restricting their adoption in October due to concerns about the adopter’s true intentions. However, this myth was debunked long ago by data and scientific studies that show black cats are not at risk during this time, according to a recent article by the New York Post. Black cats may have the luck of genetics on their side as well – research has shown that the gene for melanism, which makes their fur black, may be able to protect against certain viruses or bacteria, making them more resistant to disease than their lighter colored counterparts.
Cats of all colors are reported to be good for their owner’s health as well – according to a study from the University of Minnesota, cat owners are 40% less likely to suffer from a heart attack or stroke than non cat owners.
October is the perfect time to find a new feline friend – and perhaps change the luck of one of the wonderful black cats waiting for a new home! The Loudoun County Animal Shelter has lots of black cats and kittens available for adoption – just visit www.loudoun.gov/animals to see them online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
The Loudoun County Animal Shelter is located at 39820 Charles Town Pike, Waterford, VA 20197. For more information or directions visit www.loudoun.gov/animals.